Eight in 10 drivers back AI cameras to catch motorists using phones at the wheel
Wed, 13 May 2026
Could AI be the answer to cutting out mobile phone use in cars? New research reveals that there's strong support for using AI cameras to catch drivers who are distracted at the wheel.
Car insurance comparison site Quotezone asked Brits for their thoughts on using AI cameras to crack down on drivers who use their phones behind the wheel.
The survey follows news of a pilot project that will see two trailer-mounted AI cameras used in 12 locations Scotland to catch drivers not wearing seatbelts or using phones while driving this year. The findings of this scheme will be used to influence future police enforcement policy.
Cause for concern
The survey revealed that 81% of Brits believe the rest of the UK should follow Scotland's lead, as drivers become increasingly concerned about distracted driving. What's more 73% of respondents say they'd call out someone else's mobile phone misuse.
The survey also found that more than half of drivers (54%) say they’ve noticed an increase in other motorists using mobile phones, while some drivers admit to occasional lapses.
Almost two-thirds (65%) say they never use their phone while driving, but others confess to quick checks for maps (10%) or answering or rejecting calls (9%).
Smaller numbers admit to using phones when they're at a stop in traffic when bored (3%), to check notifications (3%), change music (2%) or send a quick text (1%).
Not worth the risk
In England, if you are caught using a mobile phone while driving, you can get six penalty points on your license and a £200 fine. If you pick up those six points within two years of passing your test, you lose your license automatically.
"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, says Greg Wilson, car insurance expert and CEO at Quotezone.co.uk
"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."
