If you drive often, it's normal to watch out for speed cameras, but a new kind of traffic device could catch you breaking more rules than you realise. The AA (Automobile Association) has warned drivers to be vigilant, urging them to avoid breaking a simple rule while out and about in their cars.
The advice was recently issued in a video the AA shared on Facebook, and you may be surprised to hear what the traffic cameras can do. Little you may know, they don't just catch people out for speeding, as there's a lot more the AI (Artificial Intelligence) cameras can detect, and it could land you in a spot of bother.
It's something people need to be aware of as they travel more over Christmas. In fact, it's essential to take the information on board, as thousands of drivers have already been caught out.
In the video, the presenter said: "Heads up drivers, there's a new kind of traffic cop in town. Across the UK, police are rolling out AI 4D radar traffic enforcement vans, and they can see straight into your car.
"These vans don't just clock your speed. They can peek inside your car to check for things like mobile phone use, missing seat belts and even tailgating."
She added: "[They are] already cruising through places like the West Midlands, Devon and Greater Manchester. These vans can catch rule breaks 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 car with AI analysing if any offences are taking place. The images are then checked by two human reviewers to confirm."
The AA states the purpose of the new technology is to "cut road deaths in half" by 2030. They have been deployed in a bid to try and make UK roads safer.
While the idea may surprise some people, the cameras have caught out many across the UK. This is why it's essential to drive safely at all times, and avoid using your phone, as it's one thing that can be detected easily.
AI 4D cameras (road safety enforcement cameras) are being trialled in many different regions across the UK. They are not nationwide in fixed locations.
In the UK, there are specific areas where participating police forces deploy the mobile or temporary units. A single Redspeed Sentio camera was placed on the A23 in Lambeth as a trial.
Devon and Cornwall also saw cameras be tested. In 2025, several other forces also took part in the extended National Highways trial.
These included areas such as Durham, Sussex, Norfolk and Greater Manchester. Trials are also reported to have taken place in Wales too.
If the cameras catch you committing any offence, you can face a fine. In some instances, points can also be added to your driving licence.
