In the southwest of England, the police are using special AI cameras to detect drunk driving. With upcoming holidays and the approaching New Year, the number of celebrations increases, and so does the number of driving incidents under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In the UK, a campaign for prevention and education is regularly launched in December. This year, a special AI premiere is part of the measures.
In the counties of Devon and Cornwall, mobile camera systems have been in use for some time. These systems use artificial intelligence to detect suspicious driving behavior influenced by alcohol or drugs, as reported by various sources. The cameras are mounted on trailers, allowing them to be moved and used at relevant traffic points as needed.
The company behind this camera system is Acusensus, a British firm. Acusensus has already deployed similar systems to detect mobile phone usage while driving and the absence of seat belts. Their mobile AI cameras were presented in 2023.
According to Geoff Collins, General Manager at Acusensus, the cameras currently being tested are a world first. The BBC quotes him saying, “We are excited to conduct the world’s first tests of this technology here in Devon and Cornwall.” Throughout December, the system will be used multiple times as part of further preventive measures against drunk driving, preceding police checks. The goal is for the AI to assist in deciding which drivers should be checked for alcohol or drug consumption by police officers.
Acusensus reports on their website that the AI system captures “high-resolution, legally admissible evidence of illegal driving behavior around the clock and in all weather conditions.” It is also capable of independently recognizing misconduct and autonomously taking evidence photos, apparently under all lighting and weather conditions.
The artificial intelligence is designed to minimize false alarms and reliably detect real violations. Additionally, it is possible for the system to detect and report speed or distance violations alongside its primary function. For potential future use in Germany, it’s interesting that the cameras can reliably detect and document violations at speeds of up to 300 kilometers per hour.
This innovative approach to road safety could significantly impact how authorities handle drunk driving and other traffic violations, potentially leading to safer roads and fewer accidents.