Britons back AI cameras to catch motorists breaking driving laws as thousands face £200 fine

There is strong public backing for the move, with research finding that 81 per cent of Britons support rolling out AI cameras nationwide.

The survey highlighted growing concern about dangerous habits on the roads, with more than half of drivers (54 per cent) saying they have noticed an increase in people using mobile phones while driving.

While 65 per cent claim they never touch their phone at the wheel, more than a third have admitted to some level of distraction.

Among these drivers, one in 10 said they quickly check their phone for navigation, while a further nine per cent admitted to answering or declining calls while driving.

Three per cent said they use their phones at traffic lights out of boredom, while another three per cent admitted to checking notifications, and two per cent said they adjust music on their phones.

Most concerning, one per cent of drivers admitted to sending text messages while driving.

Drivers caught using a mobile phone in England face six penalty points and a £200 fine, while new drivers risk losing their licence if they collect six points within two years of passing their test.

There are also longer-term costs, with drivers with points on their licence often seen as higher risk by insurers, meaning they can face significantly higher premiums for years.

Greg Wilson, car insurance expert and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, warned drivers that tougher enforcement is on the way.

He said: "Using a mobile phone while driving remains one of the most dangerous distractions on the road, yet research shows many drivers are still guilty of quick checks.

"With AI cameras being tested to detect offenders, motorists should expect enforcement to become much stricter in the coming years.

"It's encouraging to see that most people would challenge a driver using their phone, but prevention is key, staying focused behind the wheel protects lives, licences and long-term motoring costs."

The survey suggested that attitudes are starting to shift, with nearly three-quarters of people stating they would speak up if they saw a driver using their phone.

The expert urged drivers to take simple steps to avoid temptation, including putting a phone in the glove box or turning on "do not disturb" mode.

Motorists have also been advised to set up their sat nav before starting a journey, rather than trying to adjust it while driving.

Alicia Hempsted, car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, said: "The law is clear that touching or using a handheld mobile phone at any point while you're behind the wheel is illegal.

"Smart watches are treated in a similar way. Beyond the legal implications, a mobile phone conviction can stay on your driving record and may lead to higher car insurance costs, as insurers often take driving offences into account when assessing risk."