AI road cameras that can see inside vehicles detect 19,000 offences in just two weeks

Within just two weeks of launching, the AI-equipped cameras captured just under 19,000 images of people using their phones at the wheel or not wearing their seat belts.

The damning results have prompted West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker to remind drivers of the dangers of failing to follow basic road rules.

Some of the images captured showed parents at the wheel using their phones, while a toddler was not properly restrained in their own seat.

Dozens of pictures were captured of children in vehicles without proper restraints, emphasising the need for greater care from drivers.

The technology is developed by AECOM/Acusensus, whose products are already used by local authorities across the UK.

AI cameras detect drivers and take a picture if they see an offence. Images are then checked by human operators, who have the power to issue a fine.

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: "The number of people risking their own lives and the lives of others, including some very young children, is frankly shocking and far higher than we expected when setting up the trial.

"The law is clear on seat belts and mobile phones. I've met families who have lost loved ones to reckless driving.

"They never recover from these tragedies; the grief is always there. People need to stop doing this, it is simply not worth the risk."

Mr Parker said he would use "every resource available" to make streets safer as the Road Safety Partnership prepares its next steps.

Data from the two-week operation recorded 11,144 potential non-use of seat belt offences and 1,163 potential mobile phone use offences.

In nearby Fallings Park, 6,081 potential seat belt offences were detected, in addition to 757 potential mobile phone offences.

Department for Transport figures show that mobile phone use was linked to 32 deaths in 2025, while unbuckled seat belts contributed to 133 fatalities.

Around 2,000 motorists a year in the West Midlands are fined and given licence points for using their mobile phone, although this could increase dramatically if AI cameras receive a wider rollout.

The two-week trial, which took place in March, was funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) in collaboration with the police and fire services.

Since it was a trial, follow-up enforcement of violations did not take place, but it was designed to draw attention to the problem.

West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner and chair of the road safety partnership board, Simon Foster, said: "These initial findings are deeply concerning. Let me be absolutely clear: reducing the number of people killed and seriously injured on our roads remains our absolute top priority.

"We are closely evaluating these trial results to consider how this advanced AI technology can be deployed for future police enforcement. We cannot tolerate reckless behaviour that puts lives at risk, and we will use every effective tool at our disposal to ensure our roads are safer."