AI cameras now target drunk drivers in British roads

In recent months, police in the South West of England have initiated trials involving AI camera technology aimed at identifying drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs. This initiative is part of a broader campaign under the Vision Zero South West road safety partnership, which seeks to reduce fatalities and serious injuries on the region's roads. With drink drivers being six times more likely to be involved in fatal accidents, the trials signify a proactive measure to enhance road safety. Superintendent Simon Jenkinson, responsible for policing over 14,000 miles of roads, highlighted how this security measure enables operators to effectively target resources based on actionable intelligence. The AI cameras are already in use to catch individuals who fail to adhere to road regulations such as speeding or using mobile phones while driving. The technology has demonstrated its efficiency, with substantial numbers of offenders being recorded in short time frames. A recent instance on the A30 near Launceston showed130 instances of people using mobile devices behind the wheel and 117 violations of seatbelt laws within merely 72 hours. Such results have prompted the implementation of this advanced technological approach to combat drink driving as well. Geoff Collins from Acusensus stated that the trial represents a world-first effort to deploy AI monitoring systems for this specific purpose. However, it is not without controversy, as some critics raise concerns about privacy encroachments due to increased surveillance on public roads. Collins countered this narrative by emphasizing safety over privacy when it concerns potential risks involving impaired drivers. The belief is that the fear of enforcement may deter some drivers from taking the risk of driving under the influence. As these AI camera trials progress, they may very well shape future national policies concerning road safety technology and its enforcement across the UK. The initiative is not just an innovative safety measure but a significant step toward addressing the long-standing issue of drink driving, which causes preventable accidents and loss of life on the roads. The ongoing support from various safety organizations underscores a collective acknowledgment of the need for enhanced measures to combat dangerous driving behaviors effectively.