Even though some police forces in the UK already use cameras to spot drivers using mobile phones, the new AI technology takes this to a whole new level.
To tackle the increasing number of accidents due to distracted driving, the UK is planning to introduce AI-powered speed cameras across the country. These AI cameras do more than just catch drivers who are speeding. They can also spot drivers using mobile phones or not wearing seat belts, which are two big reasons for road accidents.
This new plan is a big step up from what Britain has now. Even though some police forces in the UK already use cameras to spot drivers using mobile phones, the new AI technology takes this to a whole new level. These cameras can look at images from different angles to see if a driver is holding a phone, even if it is on their lap. They automatically spot possible violations, making it easier for the police to catch distracted drivers.
A Debated Move
However, this new technology has sparked a great deal of controversy. Privacy advocates are upset about how intrusive the AI-powered cameras are. Jake Hurfurt, who leads research and investigations at the privacy group Big Brother Watch, has strongly criticized the use of “unproven AI-powered video analytics” to monitor and potentially penalize drivers, according to The Telegraph, as mentioned by Interesting Engineering. He says this kind of surveillance goes too far by treating everyone as a potential suspect and threatens everyone’s privacy.
The Automobile Association (AA) recognizes that these cameras could improve road safety, but warns against depending on them too much. These cameras can record specific incidents, but they cannot step in when a driver’s erratic behaviour, such as speeding, is due to intoxication. In these cases, having a traffic officer is still essential.
Testing, Evaluation
While the debate continues, several police forces have started testing different AI camera systems. Eleven police forces are currently trying out Acusensus cameras, which are known for their ability to capture images from multiple angles to spot phone use and seatbelt violations.
Acusensus cameras are advanced traffic monitoring systems designed to enhance road safety. They utilize AI and machine vision to detect various traffic violations, including speeding, mobile phone use and seatbelt non-compliance. Manufactured in Australia, these cameras provide real-time data to help the authorities enforce traffic regulations and reduce accident rates effectively.
At the same time, other advanced technologies, such as Jenoptik’s Vector-SR cameras can monitor traffic in both directions and use radar to detect speed. Jenoptik’s Vector-SR is a high-performance camera for enforcement of traffic rules and known for its accuracy in capturing speed violations and red-light jumping offences. It uses advanced imaging technology for accurate detection and documentation. Manufactured in Germany, the Vector-SR ensures reliable traffic monitoring and law enforcement.
Despite growing concerns, National Highways, the government-owned entity overseeing England’s motorways and major A roads, remains hopeful about AI cameras’ potential to transform road safety. Department for Transport data shows that 150,000 to 400,000 of Britain’s 50 million drivers are still breaking the law by using handheld devices while driving, leading to numerous accidents.
Safety-Privacy Balance
Given these statistics, National Highways is confident that using AI cameras will make drivers think twice about their actions and focus more on safety. They aim to use technology to discourage dangerous driving habits and create a safer environment for everyone on the road.
The discussion about AI-powered speed cameras highlights the complicated balance between technological progress and personal privacy. These cameras could greatly reduce accidents caused by distracted driving, but they also bring up real worries about privacy loss and the possible misuse of surveillance data.
(The author of this article is a Defence, Aerospace & Political Analyst based in Bengaluru. He is also Director of ADD Engineering Components, India, Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany. You can reach him at: girishlinganna@gmail.com)
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 "AI-Powered Cameras Spark Debate Over Privacy & Road Safety in UK")
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