The Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety (PACTS) has published a major new report examining how the UK monitors and enforces two persistent high-risk behaviours: not wearing a seat belt and using a mobile phone while driving.
Supported by Acusensus and informed by evidence from police forces, researchers, technology providers, and legal experts, the report highlights that both behaviours remain serious and under-detected risks on UK roads.
The Scale of the Problem
Real-World Consequences
High-risk behaviours on UK roads continue to have devastating impacts. In several high-profile cases, lorry drivers distracted by mobile phone use have caused fatal collisions, including incidents on the A1(M) and the A34 that resulted in multiple deaths. In Dumfries in 2018, a lorry driver was jailed for five years after a fatal collision caused by checking his phone. These examples highlight that despite high compliance rates reported in surveys, unbelted occupants and distracted drivers remain significantly over-represented in serious collisions, underlining the urgent need for more effective detection and enforcement.
Technology Offers a Turning Point
Emerging technologies provide a credible opportunity to address these under-detected risks. AI-enabled roadside cameras, in-vehicle monitoring systems, and phone-limiting apps are already showing potential to detect and deter dangerous behaviour at scale. Trials in the UK, including those run by Acusensus with National Highways and police forces, have demonstrated that AI systems can identify thousands of offences within hours. When the findings are publicised, they also create a measurable deterrent effect, helping to change driver behaviour and support safe roads across the country.
PACTS Recommendations
To reduce risks within a Safe System framework, PACTS recommends:
Employer Responsibility
Companies have a duty of care to protect workers and the public, yet many fail to act to prevent collisions. Unlike most work-related incidents, road traffic collisions are not usually RIDDOR-reportable, meaning government data on deaths and serious injuries caused by company failings is limited.
Acknowledgements
PACTS gratefully acknowledges Acusensus for funding this research and all organisations and individuals who contributed evidence. Responsibility for the content rests with PACTS.
