Robocop: AI tech deployed to catch mobile phone and seatbelt driving offences

Devon and Cornwall Police have deployed a free-standing AI road safety camera to catch drivers using mobile phones or not wearing seatbelts.

Said to be a UK first, the system netted almost 300 offenders in three days. Tested on the A30 near Launceston, the system nabbed 117 mobile phone offences and a further 180 seat belt crimes. It follows a 15-day trial of a larger vehicle mounted system last year.

“The early results from our latest deployment show that there is a problem with mobile phone use behind the wheel, which is both dangerous and illegal,” said Adrian Leisk, Head of Road Safety for Devon and Cornwall Police.

“While we know the majority of drivers in Devon and Cornwall are safe, respectful and conscientious motorists, sadly there is a minority who are still putting people’s lives at risk.

“We are employing this new technology to send a clear message to anyone who continues to use their phone behind the wheel – you will get caught.”

The new free-standing system from tech firm Aecom can be easily moved and so can be deployed at various locations across Devon and Cornwall (or anywhere else for that matter), providing a 24/7 deterrent to motorists who want to break the law.

The cameras use AI to detect offences but all the images are reviewed by humans before any prosecution is made. If an offence has been correctly identified, the driver is sent a warning letter or a notice of intended prosecution, depending on the severity.