New speed cameras installed in the UK can spy on drivers ‘inside vehicles’
New speed cameras set to be installed across the UK will be able to spy on what motorists are doing inside their cars in a driving law overhaul.
The Jenoptik VECTOR-SR camera has received approval with more than 100 already installed in Manchester.
The new technology is a major step up on current speed cameras in a dramatic road safety clampdown.
The device, dubbed the “ultra camera”, will be able to catch speeding drivers in both directions instead of on a single lane.
The tool can also detect road users who are breaking laws such as using their mobile phone behind the wheel or not wearing a seatbelt properly.
READ MORE New speed camera changes could be rolled out across the UK in months
Louise Thomas, spokesperson for Confused.com car insurance said the tools were a “big advance” on the previous system.
However, the expert raised fears drivers could hit back at the project over privacy concerns.
She explained: “Some drivers might be concerned about these new cameras being an invasion of their privacy, but their purpose is to keep all road users safe.
“These cameras can reduce the risk of distracted driving, which tie in with important changes made to the Highway Code earlier in the year. This included changes to how drivers use technology in their cars while driving, and harsher punishments for those who don’t follow the new rules.
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“Driving while distracted could lead to fines, points or even prosecution. For example, using your phone when behind the wheel could result in a £200 fine and up to six points on your licence.
“So although the introduction of ultra cameras might be an annoyance to some, their purpose is to ultimately make our roads safer and to reduce the risk of drivers facing punishments as a result.”
The Vector-SR can detect speeding using a sophisticated video system and a virtual reality grid.
Infra-red technology will capture recordings which cuts out the need for a camera flash if motorists break the law.
It means motorists are unlikely to know they have been caught out by the technology until they receive a letter in the post.
The new technology received Home Office Type Approval to be used as a speed camera back in 2019.
Greater Manchester Police have fitted more than 100 of the new devices after receiving funding from the Mayor’s Challenge Fund (MCF).
Peter Boulton, transport for Greater Manchester’s head of Highways commented: “By investing in these safety cameras, we are underlining our commitment to Vision Zero, our ambition to reduce and eliminate deaths and serious injuries on our roads, therefore making Greater Manchester a safer place for pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and motorists.”
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