New smart cameras in Dubai detect mobile use and other violations, even through tinted windows, highlighting the UAE's commitment to reducing road accidents.
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| Dubai Police use AI-powered cameras to catch drivers using mobile phones, even behind tinted windows, aiming to curb distracted driving and boost road safety. Image: Collected |
Dubai, UAE - November 9, 2024:
Dubai Police’s new use of AI-powered, smart traffic cameras marks a significant advancement in the effort to curb distracted driving and enforce road safety. The cameras, which are capable of capturing clear images through tinted windows, highlight the UAE’s dedication to reducing traffic violations, which have become a growing safety concern. This development underscores Dubai’s investment in advanced technology for public safety and its stance on addressing behaviors like mobile phone use while driving, which are known to contribute to high accident rates.
The data supporting this initiative reflects the severity of the issue. According to Thomas Edelmann, founder of Road Safety UAE, distracted drivers are up to 20 times more likely to be involved in an accident when texting and are four times more likely to crash when using a mobile phone for any purpose while driving. The UAE’s Ministry of Interior has reported that distracted driving is the leading cause of road accidents, with the majority of these incidents tied to mobile phone use. The impact of such distracted driving was graphically illustrated in recent videos released by Abu Dhabi Police, showing crashes directly attributed to drivers not paying attention to the road.
One critical factor that makes the current system so effective is its ability to function seamlessly through tinted windows. For years, tinted windows have allowed drivers to assume a level of privacy, and some have felt insulated from detection when violating traffic laws. However, Dubai’s advanced systems now counter this, capturing clear images even from side angles, ensuring that erring motorists can no longer hide behind darkened glass. This “no escape” measure adds a new layer of accountability and makes it far more difficult for drivers to get away with distracted driving.
While the primary target of these cameras is mobile phone use, Dubai Police’s new systems are also equipped to detect various other infractions, such as not wearing seat belts, unsafe lane changes, tailgating, and more. Beyond issuing fines and black points, Dubai’s new enforcement policy includes impounding vehicles for up to 30 days for repeated offenses, which could serve as a strong deterrent. The added ability of the cameras to provide data that helps manage traffic flow and city tolling aligns with broader goals for optimizing urban infrastructure and safety.
Ultimately, these efforts reflect the UAE’s broader vision of becoming a global leader in traffic safety. Dubai Police and other authorities have consistently emphasized that while technology is vital, true progress depends on motorist cooperation and a culture of safety among drivers. The combination of innovative technology and strict enforcement reflects the UAE’s proactive stance in tackling distracted driving. As the initiative unfolds, Dubai’s approach could serve as a model for other countries facing similar road safety challenges.