Sussex is taking a firm stand against reckless driving with the introduction of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) cameras. These new devices specifically target two of the most dangerous behaviours on the roads — motorists texting behind the wheel and drivers not wearing seatbelts.
The cameras were launched on Monday 13 April and are part of efforts to tackle the notorious “fatal five” causes of road accidents. Sussex Police have announced that the cameras will operate for several weeks before the effectiveness of the scheme is reviewed.
Alarming Stats Fuel Crackdown
Recent statistics highlight the severity of the problem in Sussex over the past three years. During this period, there were 82 serious collisions involving drivers using their phones, and 214 people were injured in crashes linked to not wearing seatbelts.
This camera rollout follows a successful National Highways trial in 2024, which detected 458 offenders in just one week across Sussex. Among those caught were 330 drivers failing to wear seatbelts, 118 using mobile phones while driving, and 10 breaking both laws simultaneously.
Chief Constable and Crime Commissioner Back Technology
Chief Constable Jo Shiner commented, “We regularly hear from our communities that they are tired of seeing people using mobile phones whilst driving. By embracing this technology, we can better understand driver behaviour, influence change and take action where necessary.”
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne added, “With dozens of collisions linked to mobile phone use and hundreds injured due to not wearing seatbelts, this technology will strengthen enforcement and help officers target dangerous behaviour more effectively.”
Funding and Future Plans
The AI cameras, supplied by Acusensus, are funded through road safety recovery costs, which include revenue from speed awareness courses. The scheme also supports the national Operation Spotlight campaign, which focuses on improving seatbelt compliance throughout April.
Police are urging all drivers to take responsibility for their actions and challenge unsafe habits on the road. Authorities warn that even small choices while driving can have devastating consequences.
Originally published by UKNIP.
