AI Speed ​​Monitoring Cameras: Technology, Impact, and Future Plans

Advanced speed monitoring cameras using Artificial Intelligence (AI) have detected 849 violations during a trial period in the UK, sparking significant interest in this new traffic enforcement system. This technology aims to enhance existing surveillance systems and prioritize creating a safer road environment. Let’s break down the timeline, technical features, and plans for further expansion.

---

1. Key Features of AI Speed ​​Monitoring Cameras

A. Detection of Various Violations

• Seatbelt non-compliance:
  • Total of 533 adults and 2 children (front seat passengers) were caught.
  • Seatbelt violations can incur fines up to £500.
• Mobile phone use:
  • 301 drivers were caught using their mobile phones while driving.
  • Penalties: Up to £1,000 fine and 6 penalty points.
• Other Vehicle Control Issues:
  • 13 individuals were caught for not having stable control of their vehicles.

B. Technical Structure and Operation

• AI technology analyzes potential traffic violations by monitoring the vehicle’s interior.
• Camera Video Analysis:
  • AI first identifies potential violations, then the police review the data and make the final determination of the violation.
• Expansion Scope:
  • More than 10 police departments are participating, and the trial area is expanding across England.

---

2. Pilot Operation and Effects

A. Summary of Test Results

• Area: Humber region.
• Time: 2-week pilot period (March and June 2024).
• Performance:
  • Total of 849 violations detected.
  • Expectation of improved road safety awareness.

B. Operating Organizations and Responses

• Safer Roads Humber:
  • “Technological advances are a critical tool to reduce accidents and casualties.” – Ian Robertson.
• National Highways:
  • Continuously evaluating the potential for nationwide technology use through ongoing testing.

---

3. Additional Expansion Plans

A. Participating Police Departments

• Includes 10 regions, such as Durham, Staffordshire, and Northamptonshire.
• Existing participating regions: Greater Manchester, Thames Valley, and West Mercia.

B. Plans for 2025

• End of Test Period: March 2025.
• Potential National Deployment:
  • Reviewing whether to fully implement the system based on data collected during the trial phase.
  • Exploring the possibility of using gantries to monitor all lanes on highway sections.

---

4. Expected Effects of AI Technology Adoption

A. Changes in Driver Behavior

• Improved public awareness of road law compliance.
• As the risk of detection increases with new technology, a natural reduction in violation rates is expected.

B. Reduction in Accidents and Casualties

• Major violations (mobile phone use, seatbelt non-compliance) are closely related to traffic fatalities.
• Effective detection of violators enhances preventative effects.

---

5. Issues Arising from Technology Adoption

A. Privacy Concerns

• There are personal data protection concerns about AI technology monitoring the interior of vehicles.
• All videos are used limitedly for determining if a violation occurred.

B. Cost Effectiveness of Technology

• Initial installation and operating costs for new technology are high.
• Need to compare against the reduction in social costs due to accident reduction in the long term.

---

Conclusion

AI-based speed monitoring cameras have successfully gone beyond simple speed violation enforcement, effectively capturing major violations like seatbelt non-compliance and mobile phone use. The UK government is evaluating the potential for nationwide expansion of this technology by 2025, marking a significant turning point in establishing a new road safety culture.

It seems like it’s worth watching how AI technology will address social issues and bring about positive change! 🚗