500 suspected driving offences identified on A303 in Hampshire
Roads policing officers were using new AI tech to help them
A week of action by roads police officers in Hampshire has resulted in 500 suspected driving offences being identified on the A34 and A303.
Officers were aided by an AI-equipped camera van, called ‘Heads Up’, which can detect drivers using their phones and those not wearing a seatbelt, provided by AECOM and Acusensus.
The van is equipped with two cameras to capture suspected offences. One is set at a shallow angle to identify a phone being held to the ear and to see if the seatbelt is going across the body.
The second camera has a steep view, providing a view of possible phone use lower down as well as providing further seatbelt evidence.
Hundreds of offences
The ‘Heads Up’ van identified 86 possible uses of a mobile phone by drivers and an incredible 273 motorists or passengers not using a seatbelt.
Simon Gomer, manager of the Safer Roads Unit said: "These are very exciting times and this has been a great opportunity for both forces to utilise the latest in AI technology.
"But the results we've had from just one week sadly show how prolific these offences are. We will continue to spread the message that distracted driving kills, these offences will be punished and social habits need to change."
Acusensus’ UK General Manager, Geoff Collins, said the ‘Heads Up’ system is a perfect example of how AI can be used to improve road safety.
"Distracted drivers are a significant hazard for everyone, whilst those not wearing a seatbelt are far more likely to be killed in a collision - the Acusensus technology can help to change behaviours, reducing the casualty toll on our roads"
Mechanical issues also found
A further 132 mechanical offences were identified by the Commercial Vehicle Unit.
This included 39 insecure loads, 30 defective tyres, 18 non-compliant mirrors and 23 overweight vehicles, with five arrests for offences such as drug driving and driving whilst disqualified.
Police Sergeant Paul Diamond, of the Commercial Vehicle Unit, said: "It is always disappointing to see the level of danger some people bring to themselves and other motorists but with dedicated operations like this we can combat the threat and remove the worst offenders.
"This activity was part of a national drive but our Roads Policing Unit conducts this work daily throughout the year and will continue to do so."