Minnesota police are using advanced AI cameras to catch drivers with cell phones in their hands. See how the new technology works and how it works.
Minnesota police are now using advanced AI technology to detect distracted drivers. The new AI cameras from Acusensus have already shown that the problem of drivers using their cell phones is widespread. It can lead to large fines.
The use of artificial intelligence in traffic monitoring is not new. But the technology is constantly evolving. The cameras can now identify more than just speeding or running red lights.
The South Lake Minnetonka Police Department (SLMPD) in Minnesota is among the latest to adopt AI cameras, and their experience since the beginning of the year shows a high number of violations.
In February alone, the police's Acusensus Heads-Up camera system recorded 10,000 violations on Highway 7.
Of the many registered cases, about 300 resulted in a warning or a fine in February, according to the police's own data extract, according to the Star Tribune .
Acusensus AI: How to catch drivers
The equipment consists of four infrared cameras mounted on a mobile trailer. They work both in daylight and in the dark. However, the cameras are relatively visible.
Attentive drivers may be able to spot the trailers on the side of the road. But drivers preoccupied with their phones will likely miss them.
The system works differently than traditional speed cameras. The AI cameras do not automatically send out tickets by post.
Instead, images of potential violations are sent to police officers who are positioned further up the road and can stop the driver.
If a driver is not stopped, the images are automatically deleted within minutes, ensuring a certain level of privacy protection.
Inattentive traffic and stalls
In Minnesota, the first violation costs a fine of $100. This is equivalent to approximately 690 Danish kroner. Repeated violations can cost up to $300, or about 2,070 kroner.
So far, two fixed camera units have been installed in the area. But efforts against inattentive driving are being intensified.
Authorities in Minnesota have confirmed an expansion of surveillance. More civilian police cars will be equipped with cameras on both sides. They will catch inattentive drivers more discreetly.
Distracted driving is a major cause of traffic accidents. The problem has grown significantly over the past 20 years. This is due to the increased use of mobile phones and infotainment systems with touchscreens. Driver assistance systems can also take attention away from the intersection.
In Minnesota, it is permissible to briefly touch your phone to answer a call. However, it is prohibited to hold the phone, text, play games or watch videos while driving. Similar rules exist in many places around the world.
AI camera technology is also being used in other countries, with both the UK and Australia using similar systems to combat distracted driving.
Interested in traffic safety and regulations? At Boosted.dk you can find more articles about traffic laws, fines and the latest technology in modern cars that can both help and distract the driver.
