The AA is alerting motorists to a new AI-powered system that has already nabbed thousands of drivers. A representative from the organisation used Instagram to highlight the emergence of 'AI 4D radar traffic enforcement vans'.
She explained that these vehicles can 'peek inside your vehicle' and detect drivers breaking regulations including 'mobile phone use, missing seat belts, and even tailgating'. The alert, issued in December 2025, revealed that the vans were already operating in locations such as Devon, Manchester, and the West Midlands.
She also suggested that drivers can be detected from as far as a mile away due to the deployment of artificial intelligence. Reportedly, over 10,000 motorists have already been caught.
AI technology apparently examines the data before human operators carry out a review, reports Chronicle Live.
The AA noted that, whilst the objective is said to be reducing road fatalities, many believe it could be 'a step too far'. The woman, whose identity was not disclosed, posted on the AA Instagram account: "Heads up drivers, there's a new kind of traffic cop in town as police across the UK roll out AI 4D radar traffic enforcement vans that can see straight into your car.
"These vans don't just clock your speed; they can peek inside your vehicle to check for mobile phone use, missing seat belts, and even tailgating. Already cruising through areas like the West Midlands, Devon, and Greater Manchester, these vans can catch lawbreakers from up to a mile away.
"In Devon alone, over 10,000 drivers have been fined since the trial began in 2023. The cameras work by taking pictures of people in their cars, with AI analysing if any offences are taking place before the images are checked by two human reviewers for confirmation. Whilst the big goal is to cut road deaths in half by 2030, many are left wondering: is this the future of safer roads or a step too far?"
Numerous individuals responding to the post believed it went too far. One commented: "Could be a breach of human rights, invasion of privacy AND let's make more money!!!!", whilst another remarked: "The purpose is not to reduce road deaths with this, it's all money money money nowadays. road deaths would be lowered if our roads were actually looked after."
A further commenter stated: "Because we all know AI is infallible. Not. I'm all for road safety but there's a sinister element to this." However, one person did express support: "I hate people who blatantly use their phones whilst driving! ! So well done."
According to the Government website, it is illegal to hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any device that can send or receive data, while driving or riding a motorcycle. This means you must not use a device in your hand for any reason, whether online or offline.
For example, you must not text, make calls, take photos or videos, or browse the web. You can use devices with hands-free access, as long as you do not hold them at any time during usage.
You must stay in full control of your vehicle at all times. The police can stop you if they think you’re not in control because you’re distracted and you can be prosecuted. You can get six penalty points and a £200 fine if you hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any device that can send and receive data while driving or riding a motorcycle.
You will also lose your licence if you passed your driving test in the last 2 years. You can get three penalty points if you do not have a full view of the road and traffic ahead or proper control of the vehicle.
You must wear a seat belt if one is fitted in the seat you are using - there are only a few exceptions. You are also only allowed one person in each seat fitted with a seat belt.
You can be fined up to £500 if you do not wear a seat belt when you are supposed to. You must make sure that any children in the vehicle you are driving are:
National Highways claims that tailgating - when you follow someone too closely on the road - is a factor in one in eight crashes on UK roads. The Highway Code says you should “allow at least a two-second gap between you and the vehicle in front on roads carrying faster moving traffic”. This is made up of the time needed for thinking and stopping.
Rule 126 of the Highway Code says that: “Dangerous and careless driving offences, such as tailgating, are enforced by the police.” If you’re spotted by police driving too close to the vehicle in front, they can take action if they think you’re driving without due care and attention. You could receive a £100 charge and three penalty points on your licence.
The minimum penalty for speeding is a £100 fine and 3 penalty points added to your licence. You could be disqualified from driving if you build up 12 or more penalty points within a period of three years.
If a camera has caught you, you should receive a notice of intended prosecution within two weeks, as well as a Section 172 notice asking who the driver was. You may have to go to court if you ignore the notice.
If you are stopped by the police, they can give you a verbal warning, give or send you a fixed penalty notice, or order you to go to court. You will be sent a letter telling you what to do.
