Artificial intelligence will help new cameras detect more drivers #
New roadside cameras have gone live with rule-breaking drivers warned they face six points on their licences. The advanced AI cameras can detect motorists using their mobile phones, a widespread problem on the roads.
Drivers caught using their phones at the wheel can be slapped with six points and a heavy fine.
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Those who already have points on their licence could be banned from the roads.
Research suggests many motorists don't fully understand the rules when it comes to mobile phones.
It's not just making calls and sending texts which is banned.
Laws tightened in 2022 mean motorists can't touch their phones for any reason, including when stationary in traffic.
Despite this it's common to see drivers looking down at their devices, particularly when stuck at traffic lights or roundabouts.
If phones are being used at sat navs they must be secured in a holder before starting a journey. Many drivers hold their phones while using them for navigation, which is not allowed.
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The new cameras are initially being trialled in Scotland. They could eventually be rolled out more widely across the UK with police chiefs keen to tackle phone usage on the roads.
Greg Wilson, motoring expert at Quotezone.co.uk, said: “Using a mobile phone while driving remains one of the most dangerous distractions on the road, yet research shows many drivers are still guilty of quick checks.
“With AI cameras being tested to detect offenders, motorists should expect enforcement to become much stricter in the coming years."
Matt Crole-Rees, car insurance expert at Confused.com, explained: "Many drivers rely on their phones for navigation, but it's important to remember that using a handheld device while driving is illegal, even if it's only to check directions or enter a destination into a sat nav app.
"Our research found that 40% of drivers who admitted to being caught using their mobile phone while driving said they were checking or changing a navigation app at the time.
"Drivers caught using a handheld phone can face a £200 fine and six penalty points on their licence.
"While sat navs can be incredibly useful, any route should be set before starting your journey. If you need to make changes while on the road, you should pull over and park somewhere safe before touching your device.