Sussex is taking a firm stand against reckless driving with the introduction of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) cameras. These state-of-the-art devices focus on two of the most dangerous behaviours on the roads: motorists texting while driving and drivers not wearing seatbelts.
The cameras were launched on Monday 13 April as part of a crackdown on these deadly habits, which are among the notorious “fatal five” causes of road accidents. Sussex Police have confirmed that the cameras will operate for several weeks before the effectiveness of the scheme is reviewed.
Alarming Stats Fuel Crackdown
Recent statistics highlight the severity of the issue in Sussex. Over the past three years, there have been 82 serious collisions involving drivers using mobile phones and 214 people injured in crashes related to not wearing seatbelts.
This camera deployment follows a National Highways trial in 2024, which detected 458 offenders in just one week across Sussex. Of these, 330 were caught not wearing seatbelts, 118 were using phones while driving, and 10 were violating both laws simultaneously.
Chief Constable and Crime Commissioner Back Tech
Chief Constable Jo Shiner commented, “We regularly hear from our communities that they are tired of seeing people using mobile phones whilst driving. By embracing this technology, we can better understand driver behaviour, influence change and take action where necessary.”
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne added, “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 revenue from speed awareness courses. This initiative also supports the national Operation Spotlight campaign, which focuses on improving seatbelt compliance throughout April.
Police are urging all drivers to take responsibility for their actions and challenge unsafe habits on the road. They warn that even small choices behind the wheel can lead to devastating consequences.
Originally published by UKNIP.
