In just four weeks when AI road safety cameras were used in Sussex, more than 2,000 seatbelt and mobile phone violations were detected.
The technology has been introduced on the A283 between Stenning and Shoreham, targeting two of the most common causes of fatal and serious injury crashes.
The cameras were installed from April 13 to May 10 and used artificial intelligence to identify potential crimes. The images were then reviewed by police officers before action was taken.
Drivers found to be in violation were offered educational courses or dealt with through normal enforcement processes.
A total of 2,294 crimes were recorded. These include 459 cell phone violations, 1,823 seatbelt violations and 12 not properly controlled violations. There were also 17 cases where both cell phone and seat belt violations were detected.
A further 73 mobile phone violations and 190 seatbelt violations were confirmed by Road Policing Unit officers on patrol throughout April during the force’s road safety campaign, Operation Spotlight.
Superintendent Joe Grantham, of Sussex Police, said: “The statistics we saw in this trial were deeply disappointing and frankly alarming. In just one month, over 2,000 seatbelt and mobile phone violations were detected at one location. These are completely avoidable risks that continue to put lives at risk on our roads every day.”
“However, what is encouraging is that the number of violations is decreasing week on week as drivers become more aware of cameras and the risks associated with their actions. This shows that both education and enforcement can change driver behavior and ultimately help keep people safe.”
Officers also observed drivers wearing their seat belts incorrectly, including behind their bodies and under their arms.
Supt Grantham added: “Many people may not understand that improperly wearing a seatbelt is still an offense and, more importantly, can have devastating consequences in the event of a collision. One death on our roads is one too many and anything we can do together to prevent it is vital.”
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