A WA-first trial of an artificial intelligence camera that captures near misses filmed 152 “close calls” at an accident-prone intersection in Northam — an average of more than two a day. The technology, which uses AI video analysis software to measure speed and distances between vehicles, classifies and grades the severity of near misses on the roads. The data collected can then be used to upgrade or make improvements to road infrastructure to minimise accidents at that location. Already used in NSW, WA rolled out the technology for the first time at an accident hotspot in Northam — which has long been the subject of complaints from the community. Shire of Northam President Chris Antonio said during the two-month trial an average of 2.5 “near misses” a day were captured at the intersection of Newcastle Road and Fitzgerald and Gairdner streets. “If you were driving, it would be enough to start your heart, they’re the kind of near misses where you have to be super aware to avoid it,” Mr Antonio said. He said it was important to capture near misses as it gave authorities data to act “proactively”. “The important thing from that is these near-miss incidents would not be captured in traditional reporting methods such as insurance reports and police reports etc,” Mr Antonio said. “If it’s a near miss, people don’t report it but it’s important to capture it so we can be proactive and not reactive.” Mr Antonio said the Shire was now in the early stages of planning potential fixes to the intersection. “It’s good because the trial has given us more objective measurements. It’s not anecdotal, it’s objective, and that helps with planning, design and costs with repairs. “We’ve now got the best data to make the best decisions.” Near misses included people not stopping at a stop sign, cutting through traffic, or dangerously turning across lanes. Following the trial — which ran from June 27 to August 27 and cost $90,000 — the camera is set to be moved to another area near a school crossing that has also prompted complaints from the community about safety. “We have identified another area for interactions with vehicles and pedestrians which we think would be good to capture. The issues are around parking, availability of parking, pedestrians, kids crossing and have they got a line of sight,” Mr Antonio said. “So this one will be the first time it focuses on car-pedestrian interactions instead of car-on-car interactions.” Road Safety Commissioner Adrian Warner said the technology, called a NearMiss camera, was a “game changer for local governments” and that it was just the beginning of their use. “The Road Safety Commission is excited about the potential of NearMiss cameras to help make our roads safer,” Mr Warner said. “This trial is being extended in Northam, and the camera has been relocated to a problematic school zone in the Town. “Once the results are in from this location we will look to move the camera to another location for further testing, and already have interest from a number of other local governments.” The technology comes as the State grapples with its worst road toll in almost a decade. As of publication, WA’s road toll is at 150 — with five people killed in multiple separate crashes at the weekend.