New research has revealed that almost one in ten drivers accelerate and are found to be speeding just 100 metres after passing a speed camera. Some drivers were even caught doing up to double the speed limit in this short stretch of road.
According to the study, which involved monitoring nearly 13,500 cars passing through speed cameras in 30mph zones across London, Edinburgh, and Cardiff, over 1,000 drivers were found to be breaking the law within seconds of passing a speed camera. The data was gathered through live road tracking by Churchill Motor Insurance.
The highest speeds recorded in 30mph zones included 57mph in Cardiff—almost double the speed limit—50mph in London, and 47mph in Edinburgh. The findings show a worrying trend where many drivers are only observing speed limits near speed cameras, then accelerating rapidly once out of range.
Nicholas Mantel, Head of Churchill Motor Insurance, commented on the findings: “Analysing real driver behaviour across the UK, it is clear many drivers are ignoring the speed limits except when they know there’s a risk of being caught. The fear of getting points on their licence or a £100 fixed penalty notice seems to be a bigger influence on driving behaviour than the well-known safety risks of speeding. While we know that a quarter of deadly crashes in the UK involve a speeding motorist, statistics like this don’t seem to be enough of a deterrent. When we get behind the wheel, it’s vital we remember that speed limits are there to help keep ourselves and others safe.”
The minimum fine for those caught speeding is £100, along with three points on their licence. In some cases, drivers may be offered a speed awareness course, which typically costs between £80 and £100, as an alternative to a fine and penalty points.
Common Speed Camera Myths
Is it true that speed vans have to be visible at all times?
No, there are no legal requirements for speed vans to be visible. Officers can operate in the dark if they choose. However, the general practice is to remain visible, as visibility itself acts as a deterrent. Gareth Thomas, a Go Safe Casualty Reduction Officer, explained: “Legally, we don’t have to be visible. I could camouflage myself if I wanted to—but it’s all about being fair, education, and preventing an accident. Even if I parked my van and went for a walk somewhere, it would deter people from speeding right away.”
Is it illegal to flash your headlights to alert motorists of a GoSafe speed van?
Flashing headlights to warn other drivers of a speed van may constitute an offence under section 89 of the Police Act 1997, which prohibits “wilfully obstructing a constable in the execution of his/her duty.” However, Gareth mentioned that while it is technically an offence, it is difficult to prove. He added: “It doesn’t bother me that people flash to warn them of the speed van—I just want to educate people and for the van to act as a speed deterrent.”
What happens if I am caught speeding?
The minimum penalty for speeding in the UK is a £100 fine, but the penalty may vary depending on how much over the limit the driver was. In some circumstances, police may offer the option of attending a speed awareness course as an alternative to a fine and penalty points.
Gareth explained: “An accredited course is far more likely to improve driver behaviour and consequently make our roads safer. Courses are available to drivers who respond quickly to the ‘notices’ and who were driving at no more than 10 per cent plus 9 mph above the posted speed limit.”
For instance, drivers caught exceeding 86mph on a motorway are unlikely to be offered an awareness course. Additionally, those who do not have a clean licence or have previously attended the course within the past three years are generally not eligible for the awareness course as an option.
