Jenoptik UK has deployed a trial of its latest development for mobile phone and seatbelt detection on a road with high collision rates in Plymouth.
The two-camera solution is situated on Gdynia Way; a busy route through the city operating within an existing Jenoptik Average Speed Enforcement area.
Jenoptik’s Distracted Driving System uses advanced AI-powered enforcement technology, high-definition cameras and infrared illumination to provide HD images and ANPR data, night and day.
The system captures front facing and overhead images to detect driver mobile phone use and seatbelt violations for both, the driver and passengers.
By combining real-time detection, automated filtering, and flexible mounting options, the system contributes to safer and more responsible driving behaviour.
Adrian Leisk, head of road safety for Devon & Cornwall Police, said: “We don’t want to catch people – we just want motorists to stay safe by wearing a seatbelt and avoid distractions while driving.
“There have been numerous tragic collisions in Devon & Cornwall over recent years where sadly people have died or been seriously injured because they were not wearing a seatbelt. Around a third of all fatal collisions nationally involve someone who wasn’t wearing a seatbelt – and not wearing one means you are twice as likely to die in the event of a serious collision.
“Similarly, we know that using a mobile phone while driving is highly dangerous and significantly increases the risk of a collision.”
Adrian Cadd, managing director of Jenoptik UK, said: “This is an important milestone in the development of our new Distracted Driving System.
“The installation in the Devon & Cornwall area marks the second location nationally where this equipment is now deployed looking at the instances of drivers using a mobile telephone and/or not wearing a seatbelt.”
I don’t think it is actually known how much distraction and sudden braking etc. is caused by the cameras and their gantries, so we can’t really ‘consider’ it, as has been suggested. I doubt if many drivers are actually aware of them, let alone be distracted by them…. a bit like CCTV cameras.
On the other hand, we do know that some drivers use their phones because they can be seen!
Hugh Jones, South Wirral
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This is ironic when you consider how much distraction and sudden braking etc is triggered by cameras and their gantries.
Eric Bridgstock, St Albans
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