October 2, 2026, 10:13 am | Read time: 2 minutes
More and more speed cameras are being used on Europe’s roads that can detect much more than just speeding. The new technology can also catch drivers using cellphones, not wearing seat belts, and tailgating.
Four Traffic Violations with One Camera
Anyone who thought a speed camera was only interested in speed needs to adjust to new technology. In Poland, the Czech Republic, and increasingly in France, systems are being used that can detect multiple traffic violations simultaneously. In addition to speeding, these systems can determine if a driver is using a cellphone while driving, wearing a seat belt, or maintaining the required distance from the vehicle in front.
This transforms the traditional speed camera into a kind of digital traffic monitor. Drivers who violate multiple rules at once can no longer rely on only their speed being checked. The technology is intended to enable authorities to automatically detect various violations and thus uncover more traffic offenses.
Also interesting: Beware of this speed camera scam
Are Speed Camera Apps for Smartphones Allowed?
Trucker Builds Gaming Cockpit Directly in Truck
France Relies on So-Called Behavior Cameras
France is going particularly far. Since 2026, so-called behavior cameras have been in use there. These systems can detect, among other things, whether drivers are using a smartphone while driving, are not wearing a seat belt, or are tailgating. Each of these violations results in a 135 euro fine and points in the French driving record.
Poland has also significantly tightened traffic controls in recent years. Those caught driving more than 50 km/h over the speed limit on certain rural or national roads may even face immediate license suspension under certain conditions. The new technical capabilities are likely to further increase enforcement pressure.
Germany Is Already Testing Similar Technology
Germany is also working on automated traffic monitoring. The so-called MonoCam plays a role in this. Originally developed in the Netherlands, the system is used, for example, from bridges and focuses a camera on passing traffic.
Unlike the new multifunction cameras, the MonoCam currently focuses on a specific violation: cellphone use while driving. Artificial intelligence helps filter suspicious footage from the video material. However, the software does not decide on fines. Each recording is subsequently reviewed by a police officer. In Germany, those caught using a cellphone while driving currently face a 100 euro fine and one point in Flensburg.