AI camera trial catches 3,000 driving offences

A pilot scheme using high-tech AI cameras caught more than 3,000 drivers using phones or travelling without wearing a seatbelt in the city region.

The Safer Roads Greater Manchester (SRGM) campaign aims to highlight the potentially life-changing impact of using mobile phones at the wheel, with 17 road deaths in the area linked directly to their use between 2014 and 2024. 

Handheld devices were implicated in a total of 1,174 incidents during the same period, with 10% of those being classed as ‘serious collisions’. 

However, SRGM expect these figures to be lower than the true number. 

Peter Boulton, TfGM’s Highways Network Director, said: “Using mobile phones while driving is a key factor in a number of road traffic collisions in Greater Manchester which have resulted in people being killed or suffering life changing injuries on our roads. 

“These images unfortunately show that there are many drivers that seem comfortable putting their own lives, and the lives of their passengers and other road users, in harm’s way.  

“If you use your phone while driving, you are four times more likely to be in a crash, so it’s not worth the risk.” 

The 51-day trial, which took place over September and October 2024, also found drivers using their phone while they were carrying passengers. 

Offenders can expect to receive six penalty points on top of a £200 fine if caught using a mobile while driving, which if it happens within two years of someone passing their test will result in them losing their licence. 

Further court action could lead to a driving ban or a maximum fine of £1,000, rising to £2,500 for bus or lorry drivers. 

Superintendent Gareth Parkin, of GMP’s Transport Operations Department said: “Whilst our officers are out on patrol, we see on far too many occasions the reckless actions drivers take when being distracted by their mobile phone. 

“The road requires your full attention and any lapse in concentration, however quick, can lead to catastrophic consequences, not only for yourself and loved ones, but other members of the public who are going about their day unaware of what may happen to them. 

“We are constantly trying to send a clear and strong message that if you do take the chance of being on your phone whilst driving you are breaking the law.  

“This means you will receive the relevant punishment when caught, which can include potentially losing your licence, having to pay a large fine and in some cases of causing serious injury having to spend time behind bars meaning it isn’t worth the risk. 

“Anyone can report their concerns through the usual methods, but especially through our Operation Snap portal online where we can look to take retrospective action if caught on dashcam or footage from other devices for those who commit offences such as this on a regular basis.”