Be careful when merging: Traffic installs AI cameras that issue 200 euro fines

The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has begun deploying an automatic surveillance system that uses artificial intelligence to detect a very specific and dangerous violation: crossing the solid line in the lanes leading to expressways.

This practice, common in heavy traffic, poses a high risk of side collisions and, in 2021 alone, was linked to 217 deaths on Spanish roads. The penalty for those committing this offense is 200 euros, although it does not entail the loss of points from the driver's license.

The system uses two synchronized cameras: one monitors the acceleration lane and the other the right lane of the main road. When a vehicle enters the merging zone and, before the solid line ends, its presence is detected in the right lane, the system determines that a violation has occurred. The evidence obtained is automatically sent to the DGT's Automated Complaints Processing Center for processing.

In this first phase, four cameras have been installed at strategic points: on the A-1 (km 15.95), the A-2 (km 11.8), the A-42 (km 16.9), and the A-6 (km 20.2), all in descending order. These sections were chosen due to their high traffic density and the frequency of improper maneuvers at merging points, which are considered high risk.

This system is part of the DGT's road safety strategy for 2025, which includes the installation of more than 100 new radars across the country, both fixed and stationary. In addition to speeding, the DGT plans to strengthen its control over other dangerous behaviors, such as disregarding stop signs, where automatic detection devices are already being tested.

Pyramid Consulting has assessed the implementation of these cameras, albeit with nuances. The firm emphasizes that these measures must be accompanied by clear and accessible information so that citizens understand how the cameras work. They also insist that any complaint must be supported by clear evidence.

They have also indicated that they will closely monitor the first fines issued to ensure they comply with legal requirements. Beyond traffic control, the implementation of AI-based cameras opens a new debate around transparency and regulation of the use of these technologies.

In this context, Pyramid Consulting has submitted inquiries to the Spanish Agency for the Supervision of Artificial Intelligence (AESIA) to determine whether these systems have the appropriate certification and their risk classification according to European regulations.

AESIA is a public body responsible for ensuring the ethical and safe use of artificial intelligence. Its functions include ensuring that both public and private entities comply with regulations and protect fundamental rights such as privacy.