UK drivers warned as long-range speed cameras come into force
As technology continues to evolve, motorists across the UK are being warned about the increasing sophistication of speed enforcement systems — particularly the introduction of long-range “Lone Ranger” cameras capable of catching speeding drivers from over one kilometre away.
The Department for Transport previously ruled that all speed cameras must be painted yellow by October 2016, making them easier to spot. However, the latest generation of mobile speed cameras is proving much harder to detect — and even harder to avoid.
What is a Lone Ranger speed camera?
Dubbed the ‘Lone Ranger’, these advanced mobile cameras are designed to monitor drivers at a greater distance than traditional systems. With a range of more than 1km, they are currently the longest-distance speed enforcement tools used on UK roads. The cameras are not static either — they can be moved between locations and are commonly operated from police vehicles or roadside setups.
But the cameras do more than just catch speeders. They can also be used to record drivers using mobile phones behind the wheel and those not wearing seatbelts — both major causes of road accidents.
RAC issues warning
RAC road safety spokesperson Pete Williams cautioned motorists about the new enforcement method:
“Although this new long-range camera could be used to enforce illegal mobile phone use or tailgating, its primary use will no doubt be to catch speeding drivers, if indeed it becomes more widely used by forces.
“Some drivers will inevitably end up being very surprised when a notice of intended prosecution letter arrives on their doormat when they felt they had managed to slow down enough after spotting a police car in the distance.”
What are the penalties for speeding?
Drivers caught speeding face a minimum £100 fine and three penalty points on their licence. First-time offenders may be offered a speed awareness course in place of the fine and points, but this is not guaranteed and depends on the circumstances.
A growing arsenal of enforcement tools
There are now numerous types of speed cameras operating across the UK, including fixed, average-speed, mobile, and red-light cameras. With the Lone Ranger now added to the mix, drivers are urged to be extra cautious and maintain legal speeds at all times — regardless of whether they think they’re being watched.
Bottom line: Keep your speed in check — even if you think no one’s watching. With these high-tech ‘Lone Ranger’ cameras rolling out more widely, the odds of escaping a fine are getting slimmer.
