AI Cameras Crack Down on Cornwall’s Dangerous Drivers

Cornwall is now at the forefront of a groundbreaking road safety project, with advanced AI cameras being deployed to monitor driver behaviour across the region. The initiative, which marks the UK’s first long-term use of such technology outside of Australia, aims to identify and reduce offences related to seatbelt use and mobile phone distractions.

Three Acusensus camera systems have been installed at various locations throughout Cornwall, with the specific spots changing regularly over the course of the 12-month project. These cameras are part of a broader effort to enhance road safety across the county’s extensive 13,500-mile road network.

How the AI Cameras Work

The Acusensus camera system is designed to capture high-speed front-facing and overhead images of vehicles, using artificial intelligence to detect potential offences. The images are then reviewed by a human verifier in the UK to confirm whether an offence has occurred. Drivers caught violating seatbelt or mobile phone laws will either receive a warning letter or a notice of intended prosecution, depending on the severity of the offence.

This system has been trialled before in Cornwall, with previous short-term deployments revealing significant numbers of violations. In a two-week test earlier this year, the cameras detected 408 seatbelt offences and 162 mobile phone-related infractions.

Local Leaders Support New Technology

Adrian Leisk, Head of Road Safety for Devon & Cornwall Police, emphasised the dangers of mobile phone distraction and the failure to wear seatbelts. “Around a third of all fatal collisions nationally involve someone who wasn’t wearing a seatbelt,” Adrian noted, highlighting the increased risk drivers take when ignoring these safety measures.

Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly, and chairman of the Vision Zero South West road safety partnership, also backed the deployment of the new technology. “You are four times more likely to crash when using a phone whilst driving, which is why it is illegal,” Alison said, stressing the importance of improving driver behaviour to enhance road safety for all.

A Step Towards Safer Roads

The deployment of the Acusensus system is seen as a critical step towards reducing road traffic injuries and fatalities in Cornwall. Dr Jamie Uff, Technical Director with AECOM, the company responsible for delivering the technology, noted the persistence of dangerous driving behaviours despite ongoing awareness campaigns. “The technology AECOM is deploying makes detection straightforward and is providing valuable insight to the police and policymakers on the current level of road user behaviour,” Dr Jamie said.

Geoff Collins, General Manager for Acusensus UK, echoed this sentiment, describing the project as a significant milestone for UK road safety. “Our technology is now being used to directly deal with poor driving behaviours, helping to break those bad habits so making our roads safer for everyone,” Geoff stated.

As this project continues over the next year, motorists in Cornwall are being urged to adhere strictly to road safety laws to avoid penalties and contribute to safer roads across the region.