CHARLOTTE, N.C. –
It has become increasingly common to see drivers distracted by their smartphones, engaging in activities like texting and making phone calls while behind the wheel. Unfortunately, these actions often lead to fatal accidents.
The North Carolina Highway Patrol has reported a rise in distracted driving among truckers. To combat this safety hazard, the agency has introduced artificial intelligence (AI) devices.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, distracted driving claimed the lives of over 3,500 individuals in 2021. Jennifer Smith, a mother who has experienced the tragic consequences of distracted driving twice, has made it her mission to promote safe driving.
Smith stated, “At a stop light, you look around and every single person is on their phone.” Her own mother was killed by a distracted driver, and later her oldest daughter was involved in an accident caused by a distracted delivery driver.
North Carolina Highway Patrol acquired three “Heads Up” AI solution devices from Acusensus to address the increasing distracted driving among truckers. Each unit cost $165,000, resulting in a total expenditure of $495,000, which was covered by federally funded grants.
Acusensus Vice President for Global Communications, David Kelly, explained that these devices serve as an initial screening tool for law enforcement to determine whether a citation is necessary. The company has conducted pilot programs in multiple states.
The “Heads Up” device captures several images of the license plate and cabin of passing commercial vehicles. These photos are then sent to law enforcement, who are immediately alerted to any violations, such as distracted driving or failure to wear a seatbelt. Based on the images, officers can decide whether to issue a citation.
The AI devices are not static and will be relocated periodically across the state to maximize their effectiveness.
Ben Greenberg, President of the North Carolina Trucking Association, acknowledged privacy concerns raised by some individuals regarding the cameras’ ability to peer into truck cabins. However, he emphasized that the issue of distracted driving should take precedence.
While Smith advocates for the implementation of more hands-free laws nationwide, her message ultimately boils down to a simple plea: “Get off your phone.”
Since the program’s inception in the spring, the North Carolina Highway Patrol has issued 441 seatbelt violation citations and 315 citations for hands-free violations between June 1 and August 4.
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