New AI cameras picked up a staggering 849 traffic offences in just two weeks during a trial held last year. AI cameras were placed across Humberside over two weeks in 2024, with hundreds caught out and fined for breaking serious rules. Resembling speed cameras, the new tools instead scan for motorists not wearing seatbelts or using their mobile phones while behind the wheel.
Information obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request earlier this year detected 849 traffic offences. Officers found 533 instances of drivers not wearing seat belts, including two children under 14 not wearing seat belts in the front passenger seat.
Meanwhile, an eye-watering 301 offences of drivers using mobile phones while in control of a vehicle were recorded.
A further 13 drivers were picked up by the cameras and found to not be in proper control of their vehicles.
Ian Robertson, spokesperson for Safer Roads Humber said: “At Safer Roads Humber, we are always looking at ways to make our roads safer and prevent death and serious injuries.
"It is disappointing that so many road users chose to use their phones or not wear their seatbelt in our area, putting themselves and others at risk.
"The use of new technology is important to change road user behaviour to reduce casualties as far as possible, whilst working alongside traditional methods."
New AI road cameras being trialled across the UK have already caught out thousands of motorists, according to recent data. Figures from Confused.com released in March showed that over 2,300 drivers had been caught out using the AI software since 2021.
The standard penalty for not wearing a seatbelt correctly is a £100 fine, but this can rise to £500 if the case goes to court.
Using a mobile phone while behind the wheel is a serious breach and could see motorists fined. Road users are likely to be issued a £200 fine and up to six penalty points on their driving licence.
After installing the devices over a week in March and a week in June, officials have now confirmed the new AI traffic cameras will be “used sporadically throughout the year".
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The AI tools are fitted with a combination of advanced cameras as well as extra kit such as 4D radar technology.
AI algorithms help identify and record offences and cross reference vehicles with the DVLA database to flag up any irregularities.
Experts at 1 Motoring Solicitors warned road users were more at risk of being slapped with penalties for breaking the rule.
They said: “For drivers in the UK, the introduction of these AI speed cameras could mean a higher likelihood of prosecution for motoring offences.”