Sussex is getting tough on reckless motoring with brand-new artificial intelligence (AI) cameras. The hi-tech kit targets two major killers on the roads — motorists texting behind the wheel and drivers ditching their seatbelts. Launched on Monday 13 April, the cameras aim to crack down on these deadly habits, part of the infamous “fatal five” causes of crashes. Sussex Police say the gadgets will be up and running for several weeks before the scheme is reviewed.
Alarming Stats Fuel Crackdown
Recent figures lay bare the scale of the problem. In the last three years:
- 82 serious collisions involved phone-using drivers
- 214 people were hurt in crashes linked to not wearing a seatbelt
The camera rollout comes after a National Highways trial in 2024, which caught 458 offenders in just one week across Sussex. Among them were 330 seatbelt slackers, 118 phone users, and 10 drivers flouting both laws.
Chief Constable and Crime Commissioner Back Tech
“We regularly hear from our communities that they are tired of seeing people using mobile phones whilst driving,” says Chief Constable Jo Shiner. “By embracing this technology, we can better understand driver behaviour, influence change and take action where necessary.”
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne adds, “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 cameras, supplied by Acusensus, are funded through road safety recovery costs, including cash from speed awareness courses. The scheme also supports the national Operation Spotlight campaign focusing on seatbelt compliance throughout April. Police urge drivers to take responsibility and challenge unsafe habits. They warn: even small choices at the wheel can have devastating consequences.
