AI cameras to be trialled at fatality hotspot

Six people have died on the A361 Frome Bypass over the last five years

Artificial intelligence cameras will be trialled at a collision hotspot in a bid to curb dangerous driving.

They will be stationed at Somerset's A361 Frome Bypass, where six people have died in the last five years – four in 2023 and 2024 alone.

AI cameras, which are already being used around major roads in England, can detect illegal mobile phone use and careless driving as well as failure to wear a seatbelt.

Those caught driving dangerously are to be sent warning letters, fined or prosecuted.

Somerset MP Anna Sabine, who has campaigned for improved road safety on the Frome Bypass, said she was pleased with the new measures.

Ms Sabine said: "Whilst this won't fix the issue entirely, I welcome any measures that will help make the A361 junction [where it meets the A362] safer."

Somerset MP Anna Sabine has fought for better road safety

The AI cameras are among the road safety measures being introduced by Avon and Somerset Police and Somerset Council.

Following last year's fatal collisions, Somerset Council carried out work on the A361/A362 junction, including upgrading junction warning signs.

Councillor Richard Wilkins said the council was looking at further measures for the A361.

"The number of serious and fatal collisions on this stretch of road is alarming and we know the community is looking to ourselves and police to try to find ways to address this and ensure this is drastically reduced," he said.

The number of fatal collisions on the A361 is "alarming", the council says

Ch Insp Rob Cheeseman of Avon and Somerset Police said 52 people were killed in road incidents in Avon and Somerset last year.

He said AI cameras represent "a significant step forward in road safety technology, helping to identify and deter dangerous driving behaviours before they lead to loss of life".