AI Cameras to Detect Mobile Phone Use and Seatbelt Offences in Essex Trial

Essex Police are set to trial advanced AI-powered cameras designed to identify drivers using mobile phones or not wearing seatbelts. The high-definition technology, already implemented by other forces across England, will be deployed starting in April.

The AI-driven system captures high-resolution images, which are reviewed by human analysts before any enforcement action is taken. Offending motorists may receive warning letters, fines, or even face prosecution.

Cutting-Edge Technology for Road Safety

According to Essex Police’s head of roads policing, Adam Pipe, the technology has demonstrated "phenomenal" results. "The picture quality is outstanding, detecting offences that would be impossible for an officer stationed at the roadside," he told BBC Essex.

The cameras are expected to be mounted on relocatable trailers, allowing flexible deployment across different locations.

Promoting Safer Driving

Mr. Pipe emphasized that while the cameras will help enforce laws, road safety ultimately relies on personal responsibility. "People should feel empowered to challenge unsafe driving behavior. Speaking out could be the difference between making it home safely or not," he said.

Recent deployments of similar AI cameras in Devon and Cornwall detected over 2,000 offences in just two months, including unrestrained children in vehicles. One image showed a toddler sitting on a woman's lap in the front passenger seat.

A Growing National Initiative

Developed by technology company Acusensus, the cameras are already in use across 19 police regions, including Norfolk and Northamptonshire. Geoff Collins, UK general manager at Acusensus, stated that the system is a “labour-saving device” that reduces the burden on human officers.

"It's impractical for police to manually monitor thousands of vehicles every day. This technology allows for more efficient enforcement while ensuring a human reviews each case," he explained.

The initiative is part of broader efforts to improve road safety, with AI playing an increasing role in law enforcement and traffic monitoring.