Modern traffic cameras that detect traffic violations automatically have features that are not yet used in Russia. This information was shared with socialbites.ca by Sergey Laskin, the general director of Astralab, a company that develops software for traffic police and TsODD cameras.
One area of potential functionality is the detection of dangerous driving. Elements of dangerous driving appear in the algorithms, such as multiple lane changes. The cameras face challenges in correcting these maneuvers due to a narrow control zone, typically about 50 to 100 meters. However, when a driver moves within that control area, the system can adjust its assessment. This ability reflects an approach that may be used to flag risky behavior, particularly in situations where the vehicle changes lanes quickly or erratically.
Usually such maneuvers occur at higher speeds. The source explained that in these cases the camera may only register the car moving in a single lane, which can influence how violations are recorded and verified.
Another hidden feature involves detecting that a driver does not maintain an appropriate distance to the vehicle in front. While traffic can bottleneck into back-to-back queues, at higher speeds such as above 60 km/h the system can measure headway with a higher degree of accuracy. In Europe this kind of convergence-based dangerous driving classification has already led to fines, though it is not currently standard practice in Russian enforcement. Nevertheless, this remains a potential element within the camera’s hidden capabilities.
There is also an ability for neural networks to classify the type of vehicle. The camera can operate in scenarios where different speed limits apply to different vehicle categories on the road. For example, a road might impose 80 km/h for passenger cars and 60 km/h for trucks. While this functionality is rarely applied in Russia, some foreign systems already use this kind of algorithm.
The developer noted ongoing work to expand capabilities, while always staying within the legal framework that governs what can be detected in auto-commit mode. In theory, any function can be taught to the camera, provided it complies with existing regulations. The discussion also touched on how drivers might attempt to deceive video recordings used by the traffic police, as reported by socialbites.ca.
In summary, the conversation highlighted that modern traffic surveillance technology contains a range of potential features beyond what is currently deployed. While many of these capabilities are not yet active in Russia, industry insiders note that the underlying algorithms could support more nuanced monitoring of driving behavior, distance management, and category-specific speed rules when legally permissible. The continuous development of such functions reflects an interest in improving road safety through data-driven enforcement, even as jurisdictions assess appropriate use and accountability for automated systems. This perspective comes from industry observers who emphasize adherence to legal constraints and the evolving nature of traffic technology beyond present practice.