AI Cameras Deployed Across Sussex To Target Dangerous Drivers

New AI-powered cameras are being rolled out across Sussex to help police detect dangerous driving and reduce serious collisions.

Sussex Police is the latest force to introduce the technology, which identifies drivers using mobile phones or not wearing seatbelts – two of the “Fatal Five” offences linked to the most serious road crashes.

Over the past three years in Sussex, 82 people have been involved in collisions where mobile phone use was a factor, while 214 people have been injured where seatbelts were not worn.

A trial by National Highways in 2024 detected 458 offences in just seven days, including 330 seatbelt offences and 118 mobile phone offences.

Sussex Police Chief Constable Jo Shiner said the cameras will support, not replace, officers.

She said:

“We regularly hear from our communities across Sussex that they are tired of seeing people using their mobile phones whilst driving, therefore increasing the risk to everyone around them.

"And while we endeavour to respond to these concerns and proactively patrol wherever possible, the reality is we cannot be everywhere all of the time.

“These AI cameras are not designed to replace modern day policing, but to enhance it.

"By embracing the technology available to us, we can build a better picture of driver behaviour, influence behavioural change and take action where necessary.

"It is statistically proven that not wearing a seatbelt and driving whilst distracted which includes using a mobile phone are among the five most common causes of fatal and serious injury collisions on our roads.

"We hope that this new initiative will help to reduce the number of these collisions, which so often cause absolute devastation to victims and their loved ones.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said the rollout delivers on a manifesto pledge to improve road safety and support targeted enforcement.

She said:

“One of my key manifesto pledges was to address road safety which is why I established the Fatal Five Unit in Sussex - to tackle the main causes of serious injury and death on our roads with a targeted determination.

"The trial of AI camera systems is another promised delivered.

“With 82 collisions involving drivers using mobile phones and 214 people injured due to not wearing a seatbelt in just 12 months, I welcome the use of technology to enhance policing capability and allow Sussex Police to deploy resources more effectively.

“But we all have a role to play. We must not be afraid to challenge friends, family members or anyone getting behind the wheel if they are using a mobile phone or failing to wear a seatbelt.”

The cameras, supplied by Acusensus and funded through road safety recovery costs, will be in place for several weeks before being reviewed.

Acusensus UK General Manager Geoff Collins said the technology helps identify offences that would be difficult to detect through traditional policing alone, and has already led to improved driver behaviour in other areas.

The rollout coincides with Operation Spotlight, a national road safety campaign focusing on seatbelt compliance.