AI camera trial detects 849 traffic offences

AI-powered traffic cameras are to be used again in the Humberside Police area after a two-week trial last year detected 849 traffic offences.

The cameras caught drivers using mobile phones and not wearing seat belts.

Safer Roads Humber (SRH) deployed the cameras for a week in March and June.

The organisation said that, following the trial, the cameras would "be used sporadically throughout the year".

Software flags up possible offences and a person then reviews the footage.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the figures were obtained by car sales firm Cinch through a Freedom of Information request.

The 849 traffic offences were broken down into four categories.

There were 533 instances of drivers not wearing a seat belt and two of children under 14 not wearing seat belts in the front passenger seat.

Drivers using mobile phones accounted for 301 offences and 13 drivers were observed not being in proper control of their vehicles.

The trial formed part of a wider national scheme involving police forces including Greater Manchester Police, Thames Valley Police and West Mercia Police.

The cameras were loaned by National Highways.

Ian Robertson, from SRH, said: "At Safer Roads Humber, we are always looking at ways to make our roads safer and prevent death and serious injuries.

"It is disappointing that so many road users chose to use their phones or not wear their seat belt in our area, putting themselves and others at risk.

"The use of new technology is important to change road user behaviour to reduce casualties as far as possible, whilst working alongside traditional methods."

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