Cyprus proposes AI camera legislation to penalize mobile use and seatbelt violations

The Cyprus Ministry of Transport has launched a public consultation on a new bill that would enable the use of artificial intelligence-powered cameras to autonomously detect and record mobile phone usage and failure to wear seatbelts while driving. Currently, these violations are only recorded if an initial, separate violation occurs, such as speeding or running a red light, as existing traffic cameras lack the technology to identify these specific offenses independently.

The proposed legislative changes involve amending the existing traffic laws to categorize mobile phone use and seatbelt non-compliance as standalone offenses. The AI systems will be integrated into new, stationary cameras specifically programmed for image analysis to detect these infractions without requiring a prior trigger. This initiative does not apply to the current network of stationary or mobile cameras, which lack the required processing capabilities.

The bill is currently undergoing public consultation as the Ministry of Transport and the Police move forward with plans to modernize traffic enforcement. Once enacted, this technology aims to ensure strict adherence to road safety regulations by allowing automated, direct enforcement of driver behavior.