The UK is rolling out new AI-powered speed cameras capable of looking inside vehicles to detect road violations, and thousands of motorists have already been fined.
These high-tech cameras, developed by Australian firm Acusensus, can automatically identify drivers using mobile phones, not wearing seatbelts, and breaking speed limits.
Trials have already been conducted in Manchester, Cornwall, and other regions, with thousands of offences recorded in just a few days. The AI system is designed to improve road safety and ensure stricter enforcement of traffic laws.
How Do AI Speed Cameras Work?
Unlike traditional speed cameras, which primarily focus on vehicle speed, these AI-driven devices can:
- Detect Mobile Phone Use: Identifying if a driver is holding or using a phone while driving.
- Check for Seatbelt Compliance: Capturing images to determine if drivers and passengers are wearing seatbelts.
- Monitor Speeding & Traffic Violations: Tracking vehicles exceeding the speed limit or running red lights.
- Verify Vehicle Compliance: Checking if the car has a valid MOT, insurance, and road tax.
Where Are These AI Cameras Being Installed?
The AI-powered cameras are being introduced across multiple UK locations, with trials already conducted in:
- Greater Manchester – A five-week trial caught over 3,200 drivers violating seatbelt and mobile phone laws.
- Cornwall – A short three-day trial detected 300 offences.
- Durham, Sussex, Norfolk, Thames Valley, and more – These counties are participating in trials or planning to introduce AI cameras soon.
The technology will soon expand to other regions as law enforcement agencies embrace automated monitoring to enhance road safety.
What Happens If You’re Caught?
If the AI camera flags an offence, the image is reviewed by a human officer before a fine is issued. The possible penalties include:
- Using a mobile phone while driving – £200 fine and 6 penalty points
- Not wearing a seatbelt – £100 fine (up to £500 if it goes to court)
- Speeding – Fines ranging from £100 to £2,500 and potential license suspension
- Running a red light – Minimum £100 fine and 3 points on the license
Public Reaction: A Step Towards Safer Roads or Privacy Invasion?
While many road safety advocates welcome the technology, some drivers have raised privacy concerns. Critics argue that AI-powered surveillance inside cars is an overreach, leading to ethical debates about the balance between public safety and personal privacy.
The RAC supports the move, stating that road violations, especially mobile phone use, have increased due to a lack of enforcement. However, civil liberties groups warn against unchecked surveillance and demand clearer guidelines on how AI data is used.
Are AI Traffic Cameras Legal?
Yes, AI cameras are legal in the UK, provided they follow data protection regulations. All images captured must comply with GDPR laws and cannot be misused for non-traffic-related surveillance. The government has stated that only violations will be recorded and processed.
What Drivers Should Do to Avoid Fines
With these AI cameras rolling out across the UK, drivers should take extra precautions to ensure they comply with road laws:
- Avoid using mobile phones while driving – Use hands-free options if necessary.
- Always wear a seatbelt – Even for short trips.
- Follow speed limits and traffic signals – AI cameras are tracking violations in real-time.
- Ensure your car is roadworthy – Check that your MOT, insurance, and tax are up to date.
What’s Next? Expansion of AI Road Enforcement
As AI technology becomes more sophisticated, experts predict that traffic enforcement will become fully automated in the future. The UK government is also considering:
- AI-powered pedestrian monitoring for pedestrian safety zones
- Smart traffic management systems to reduce congestion
- Automated breathalyzer tests using AI-powered roadside checks
Final Thoughts
AI-powered speed cameras are changing the landscape of road enforcement in the UK. With thousands already fined, authorities hope the new technology will serve as a deterrent against reckless driving, making roads safer for everyone.
However, the debate over privacy vs. safety will likely continue as AI-based surveillance expands. Whether this innovation is a necessary safety measure or an overreach of power, one thing is certain—UK drivers must adapt to the new age of AI enforcement to avoid hefty fines.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
A senior at Yale-NUS College with interests in developmental and labour economics, as well as creative non-fiction and poetry. Currently, I’m studying as an Economics major and an Arts and Humanities minor (focusing on Creative Writing) with heavy involvement in the Singaporean journalism scene and involved in research on economic history and educational policy. I’m working as an author for SKC News, Yale-NUS’ student publication, as a writer for Wingspan, Yale-NUS’ alumni magazine, and as a tutor for the NUS Libraries Writer’s Centre. | Linkedin