Police Test Innovative AI Technology to Combat Distracted Driving in West Metro
Police in the west metro area are taking a proactive stance against distracted driving by implementing cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology. An eye-catching orange structure, recently positioned along Highway 7, is part of a robust $450,000 initiative funded by the Highway 7 Safety Coalition.
Sgt. Adam Moore from the South Lake Minnetonka Police Department shared that as the local communities expand, traffic congestion has risen significantly, leading to an increase in accidents. Among them, distracted driving remains a pressing concern. "It’s very concerning," noted Sgt. Moore.
In collaboration with Acusensus, the Highway 7 Safety Coalition is utilizing AI technology that aims to identify drivers engaging in unsafe habits such as texting or handling their phones while driving. "Approaching a driver and saying, ‘I have a picture of you with the phone in your right hand,’ makes it really hard for them to deny it," Moore explained, emphasizing the effectiveness of this approach.
The system is remarkably efficient; if it detects a driver without a seatbelt or using a mobile device, it communicates this information to an officer on patrol in as little as five seconds. "As far as I’m concerned, this is the first time this has been used in Minnesota," said Moore, highlighting the innovative nature of the initiative.
Personal Stories Drive Change
For many, the issue of distracted driving hits home. Amy LaValle, whose life was tragically altered when she lost her 19-year-old son Phillip in a distracted driving incident in 2013, underscores the urgency of this situation. "These situations are totally preventable; they don’t have to occur," emphasized LaValle, who now dedicates her life to advocating for safer roads through initiatives such as "Just Drive Day."
LaValle expresses her support for law enforcement’s efforts: "People are blatantly using their phones; they don’t care, so I think it’s awesome." It’s crucial to note that any images captured by this technology will be deleted if law enforcement doesn’t issue a citation, a measure designed to protect individuals while still promoting safer driving practices.
Moving Forward
During a recent visit, our 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS team observed the structure stationed in Shorewood. However, it won’t stay put for long; it will be rotated across various locations along Highway 7 throughout the year. "We aim to educate people and encourage them to put their phones down," Moore advocated.
As communities navigate their way through the growing prevalence of technology on the roads, the innovative use of AI in traffic safety sets a promising precedent. The collaboration between law enforcement and technological advancements may just pave the way for safer driving experiences in Minnesota.
The AI Buzz Hub team is excited to see where these breakthroughs take us. Want to stay in the loop on all things AI? Subscribe to our newsletter or share this article with your fellow enthusiasts.
