The Australian state of Victoria has invested in artificial intelligence (AI) to catch drivers using their mobile phone at the wheel.

The initiative is part of Victoria State’s Road Safety Strategy, which aims to halve deaths and significantly reduce injuries by 2030, towards a goal of zero road deaths by 2050.

“It’s unacceptable that so many Victorians are putting others’ lives at risk – which is why we’re investing AU$33 million to install this new distracted driver technology,” said Danny Pearson, Minister for Police and Emergency Services.

The recent trial of AI phone detection technology lasted three-months and assessed almost 680,000 vehicles, finding that one in 42 drivers were using their mobile phone illegally. Monash University’s Accident Research Centre (MUARC) estimates that if automated mobile phone enforcement technology were to be deployed at scale in Victoria, it could prevent around 95 casualty crashes per year.

There’ll be no more sneaky looks at your mobile phone when you should be paying attention to the road. The AI analyses pictures taken by advanced cameras and checks for signs of mobile phone use. Pictures of drivers suspected of using their mobile phone while driving are verified by a staff member before any action is taken.

Stay safe, not sorry and don’t use your mobile phone while driving.