New AI Speed Cameras to Catch Drivers Using Phones and Not Wearing Seatbelts
UK motorists, beware! Cutting-edge AI-powered speed cameras are here — and they do more than clock your speed. These smart devices can now spot if you’re on your phone or skipping your seatbelt behind the wheel.
AI Cameras Crack Down on Dangerous Driving
Forget traditional speed cameras. These new high-tech gadgets use multiple high-res lenses combined with artificial intelligence to catch a range of dangerous driving habits. The move targets distractions and basic safety law breaches, cracking down hard on risky drivers.
Heavy Fines & Points for Phone Use and No Seatbelt
- Using a mobile phone: Instant £200 fine plus 6 penalty points
- Possible court summons with fines up to £1,000 (or £2,500 for bus and lorry drivers)
- Not wearing a seatbelt: £100 fine, rising to £500 if taken to court
Early trials reveal the cameras are already hitting the mark. In a few weeks, AI flagged 590 drivers without belts and 40 caught texting at the wheel.
Rollout Across 10 Police Forces
The programme is expanding fast. In 2024, 10 police forces including Durham, Greater Manchester, and Sussex are using these AI snappers.
Bumper, a car finance group keeping an eye on the tech, commented:
“The system uses multi-camera setups to capture different views inside vehicles. AI analyses the footage for speeding and other offences.”
“But any flagged violation is double-checked by police before any fines are handed out.”
“With so many caught without seatbelts or on phones, it’s clear the cameras are helping cut accidents by enforcing simple rules.”
Speed Camera Myths Busted
1. Do speed vans have to be visible?
No. There is no law requiring speed vans to be seen. Gareth Thomas, a Go Safe officer, said:
“We don’t have to be visible legally, though we aim for fairness, education, and accident prevention.”
2. Is flashing headlights to warn other drivers illegal?
Yes, technically. Flashing to warn of speed traps can be “wilfully obstructing a police officer” under the Police Act 1997. Proving intent, however, is tricky.
3. What happens if you’re caught speeding?
Minimum penalty is a £100 fine and 3 points. Drivers may be eligible for a speed awareness course if:
- They respond quickly to the notice
- Speed was less than 10% + 9mph over the limit
- They have a clean licence and haven’t taken the course in 3 years
Anyone caught doing over 86mph on motorways won’t qualify for the course.
Final Warning: Play Safe or Pay Up
These AI speed cameras mark a huge step in cracking down on reckless driving. Some call it intrusive, but police insist it’s about saving lives, not just doling out fines.
Drivers, stay sharp and stick to the rules. It’s not just about avoiding penalties — it’s about keeping everyone safer on UK roads.
