AI cameras installed to detect driving offences in Sussex

Sussex Police is the latest force to deploy the technology – live from Monday, April 13 – following a trial by National Highways in 2024 which saw 458 offences detected across seven days in Sussex, according to the police force.

Of these, 330 were for a driver not wearing a seatbelt; 118 were for a driver using a mobile phone and 10 were for both offences combined, Sussex Police said.

Jo Shiner, Sussex Police Chief Constable and roads policing lead for the National Police Chiefs’ Council, said: “We regularly hear from our communities across Sussex that they are tired of seeing people using their mobile phones whilst driving, therefore increasing the risk to everyone around them.

"And while we endeavour to respond to these concerns and proactively patrol wherever possible, the reality is we cannot be everywhere all of the time.

“These AI cameras are not designed to replace modern day policing, but to enhance it. By embracing the technology available to us, we can build a better picture of driver behaviour, influence behavioural change and take action where necessary.

“It is statistically proven that not wearing a seatbelt and driving whilst distracted which includes using a mobile phone are among the five most common causes of fatal and serious injury collisions on our roads.

"We hope that this new initiative will help to reduce the number of these collisions, which so often cause absolute devastation to victims and their loved ones.”

The cameras are funded through Sussex Police’s road safety recovery costs, which include proceeds from speed awareness courses, and supplied by Acusensus.

They will remain in place for a period of several weeks, before being reviewed and evaluated, according to the police force.

Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne added: “One of my key manifesto pledges was to address road safety which is why I established the Fatal Five Unit in Sussex - to tackle the main causes of serious injury and death on our roads with a targeted determination.

“With 82 collisions involving drivers using mobile phones and 214 people injured due to not wearing a seatbelt in just 12 months, I welcome the use of technology to enhance policing capability and allow Sussex Police to deploy resources more effectively.

"This technology will strengthen their ability to detect dangerous behaviours, intervene earlier and reach more locations across our county.

“But we all have a role to play. We must not be afraid to challenge friends, family members or anyone getting behind the wheel if they are using a mobile phone or failing to wear a seatbelt. Poor decisions put lives at risk and no message or moment of convenience is worth the devastation caused by a fatal collision.

“I look forward to discussing the impact and results of the AI cameras with the Chief Constable in due course.”