What can the new super speed cameras do?
The French government’s plans envisage upgrading some of the 4,000 or so speed cameras in the country to modern multi-talents. A total of 4,160 fixed speed cameras are to be in operation by 2025, of which around 500 devices will be able to detect other traffic violations in addition to speed measurement. These systems work with AI-based software that can, for example, register cell phones at the wheel, unbuckled seat belts and insufficient distance to other vehicles.
According to a report by France Info, investments of 46.3 million euros (around 49.3 million US dollars) are planned for this. These funds are to be used both for the maintenance of existing equipment and for the purchase of new devices.
How do the super flashers work?
The new technology is based on advanced AI and image processing software. Camera systems record traffic and use algorithms to analyze windshields, people and cell phones. Violations such as using a cell phone or not wearing a seatbelt are detected automatically. The range of the speed cameras can be up to 500 meters, which enables effective monitoring across several lanes.
In addition, tamper-proof digital case data is intended to guarantee a high standard of data protection. Data will only be stored and processed in the event of a recognized violation.
Possible consequences for traffic offenders
If several infringements are registered at the same time, the fines could increase considerably. One example: Anyone driving too fast with a cell phone to their ear and not keeping a safe distance risks up to three fines of 135 euros each. This adds up to 405 euros (around 433 US dollars). In extreme cases, a combination of four violations could even cost 540 euros (around 578 US dollars).
As the fines are enforced reciprocally within the EU, German drivers are also affected by the new regulations.
Criticism of the new speed traps
The introduction of the super speed cameras has been met with fierce criticism. The French automobile club “40 Millions d’automobilistes” describes the plans as a pure rip-off. According to a statement, the new devices would hardly contribute to improving road safety, but would primarily pursue financial interests.
There are also fears that unjustified penalties could be imposed, for example if another vehicle cuts in just in front of you and the distance is temporarily not maintained as a result. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) also raises questions, as there is still no legal basis for the widespread introduction of such systems in France.
International perspective: are there super speed cameras elsewhere?
France is not the first country to use advanced radar technology. In Australia, more specifically in the state of New South Wales, camera systems specially developed to detect cell phone use at the wheel have been in use since 2019. These systems work in a similar way to the planned French speed cameras and use AI for analysis.
The Netherlands also has similar technologies that can punish cell phone violations. In Germany, however, the introduction of such systems is currently difficult due to legal and data protection hurdles. However, accidental findings, such as the detection of an unbuckled seatbelt in a speed camera photo, are already possible and can be prosecuted by the authorities.
Conclusion: the future of traffic monitoring
The super speed cameras mark a technological advance in traffic monitoring that could improve road safety. At the same time, however, the new technology raises ethical and legal questions, particularly with regard to data protection and fairness in the punishment of offenses.
It remains to be seen whether the new systems in France and other countries will prove their worth in the long term.
