Sat Oct 05 02:12:00 UTC 2024: ## AI Cameras Crack Down on Seatbelt Misuse: Fines and Points Await
Motorists across the UK are being warned: new AI cameras are being trialled to identify drivers who aren’t wearing their seatbelts correctly, potentially leading to fines and penalty points. These high-tech cameras can spot a range of offences, including improper seatbelt usage, texting while driving, and bad driving practices, without requiring a police officer to pull over the vehicle.
Failing to wear a seatbelt correctly can come with hefty consequences. Drivers face a £100 on-the-spot fine, three penalty points, and a mandatory online education course. For those carrying children who aren’t properly secured, the fine jumps to £500.
Experts stress that wearing a seatbelt incorrectly can be as dangerous as not wearing one at all. Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing, emphasizes the importance of proper seatbelt adjustment, highlighting that the belt should be snug across the hips, not the stomach, and the shoulder strap should cross the chest, not the neck. He warns against tucking the belt under the arm, as it provides minimal protection in a crash.
Pregnant women are advised to wear the lap belt below their bump and across their thighs, with the diagonal part placed between the breasts and over the collarbone. Children under 12 or shorter than 135cm must be secured in car seats or booster seats.
There are exceptions to the seatbelt rule, including reversing, supervising a learner driver reversing, operating emergency vehicles, troubleshooting trade vehicle faults, or being a licensed taxi driver looking for fares. Goods vehicle drivers can also skip the belt for short deliveries under 50 meters. Those with medical exemptions must carry a doctor’s Certificate of Exemption.
The introduction of these AI cameras marks a significant shift in road safety enforcement, placing greater emphasis on correct seatbelt usage and potentially leading to increased fines and penalties for those who fail to comply.
First Piper 