Freestanding AI cameras are now watching drivers in Cornwall and Devon to make sure they are wearing seatbelts and not using mobile phones while driving.

Three Acusensus camera systems are currently operational, with specific locations changing regularly during the course of the 12-month project.

It is the first long-term use of this state-of-the-art equipment outside Australia, and is being used to monitor locations within Devon and Cornwall’s 13,500-mile road network.

The Acusensus camera system uses two cameras to take high-speed front-facing and overhead images of vehicles and uses AI to detect any potential offences. The images are then verified in the UK by a human to determine whether an offence has taken place.

If an offence has been correctly identified, the driver will either be sent a warning letter or a notice of intended prosecution, depending on the severity.

An image taken by an Acusensus AI camera in Cornwall (Image: Vision Zero)

A range of locations will be monitored and include different speed limits, road characteristics and daily number of vehicles to help identify where the greatest risk for these offences exists.

Devon and Cornwall Police, which is overseeing the project, has previously trialled the Acusensus technology in both 2022 and 2023.

 Earlier this year, during a two-week deployment in February and March, the system detected 408 seatbelt and 162 mobile phone offences.

Adrian Leisk, head of road safety for Devon and Cornwall Police, said: “The vast majority of drivers in Devon and Cornwall are safe, respectful and conscientious motorists – but we know mobile phone distraction and not wearing a seatbelt are a serious danger to all road users.

“Around a third of all fatal collisions nationally involve someone who wasn’t wearing a seatbelt – and not wearing one means you are twice as likely to die in the event of a serious collision.

An Acusensus AI camera trailer on the A38 at Landrake (Image: Vision Zero)

“With regards to those who use mobile phones while behind the wheel, we hope these cameras will send a clear message – you will get caught.

“Whether it’s by the Acusensus cameras, a police officer or on publicly witnessed video footage submitted through Op Snap, the result will be the same and you could end up with a hefty fine and six penalty points – which could be enough to cost some drivers their licence and livelihood.

“It’s just not worth it. Before you start your journey, put your phone away in the glovebox or somewhere you cannot reach it so the temptation is not there. If it’s an emergency, make sure you pull in and stop the car before making that call.”

A person captured talking on a mobile phone while driving in Cornwall (Image: Vision Zero)

Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, is also chairman of the Vision Zero South West road safety partnership.

She said: “You are four times more likely to crash when using a phone whilst driving, which is why it is illegal.

“By embracing new technology such as the Acusensus system, we have the opportunity to improve driver behaviour and consequently make our roads safer for everyone.”

The project is separate to one being trialled by National Highways on major routes throughout the country, although not in Devon and Cornwall.

What is the law on using a mobile phone or other device while driving?

  • It’s 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.

The law still applies to you if you’re:

  •  stopped at traffic lights
  • queuing in traffic
  •  supervising a learner driver
  • driving a car that turns off the engine when you stop moving
  • holding and using a device that’s offline or in flight mode

Exceptions

You can use a device held in your hand if:

  • you need to call 999 or 112 in an emergency and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop
  • you’re safely parked
  • you’re making a contactless payment in a vehicle that is not moving, for example at a drive-through restaurant
  • you’re using the device to park your vehicle remotely
  • Using devices hands-free

You can use devices with hands-free access, as long as you do not hold them at any time during usage. Hands-free access means using, for example:

  • a Bluetooth headset
  • voice command
  • a dashboard holder or mat
  • a windscreen mount
  • a built-in sat nav
  • The device must not block your view of the road and traffic ahead.

Penalties

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’ll also lose your licence if you passed your driving test in the last two 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 can also be taken to court where you can be banned from driving or riding your vehicle, and receive a maximum fine of £1,000 (£2,500 if you’re driving a lorry or bus).