It’s no secret that driving while distracted can be deadly. Last week, Durham Constabulary revealed startling statistics from a new trial using advanced surveillance technology aimed at catching drivers who put themselves and others at risk. In just one week in July, nearly 1,000 drivers in County Durham were caught in the act—using mobile phones or neglecting to wear seatbelts.
Deployed near Newton Aycliffe, the cutting-edge camera system is not your average traffic cam. It utilizes artificial intelligence to process high-definition images from steep and shallow angles, offering officers a clear view into each vehicle’s console area. This allows them to see, quite literally, what drivers are up to.
The results? In one week alone:
- 622 drivers were caught using a mobile phone
- 329 drivers were caught without a seatbelt
- Additional offenses included lack of full vehicle control and dangerous carriage of passengers
During the week, one motorist was caught four times holding their phone and another driver three times! They’ll now be banned and will attend court at a future date.
The use of mobile phones while driving is particularly concerning. Road Policing Inspector Paul Ryans expressed his alarm, stating, “The results are truly shocking, the majority of the images show that almost all offenders are holding their phones low down, meaning they are not concentrating on the road ahead of them, creating a significant risk not only to themselves but their passengers and other innocent motorists too.”
All offenders caught during this operation are being prosecuted, as Durham Police aim to alter behaviors and prevent potential tragedies. Ryans’s message is clear: “Switch off your phone and put it away so you are not distracted.”
Durham Constabulary is one of the many forces teaming up with Acusensus, the tech firm behind this innovative surveillance. Geoff Collins of Acusensus highlighted the technology’s proven track record in Australia and its potential to enhance road safety in the UK: “We have to break the cycle of dangerous behaviours that some drivers get into, so this project sends a clear message—you can be detected and there are consequences.”
In an era where road safety remains a top concern for residents, the use of such technology sends a powerful message about the importance of responsible driving. Durham Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen emphasized the broader implications of these findings: “This camera has provided 951 sharp lessons that driving without a seatbelt or using a mobile phone is seriously not a good idea. We have to stop people taking risks like this, which are potentially lethal.”
Put the phones down and buckle up!
