Police Sound Alarm as Extreme Speeding in London Rockets by 142%
With the Bank Holiday looming, London’s Met Police are cracking down hard. Extreme speeding has surged by a shocking 142% since lockdown began compared to the same period last year. That’s 1,656 offences smashed out versus 684 in 2019. Drivers are seriously risking lives by tearing through the capital at breakneck speeds.
Speeds Soar Across All Limits
Whether it’s 20mph zones or 70mph motorways, reckless drivers are pushing limits to the extreme. The highest recorded speeds are jaw-dropping:
- 163mph in a 70mph zone
- 119mph in a 60mph zone
- 121mph in a 50mph zone
- 134mph in a 40mph zone
- 110mph in a 30mph zone
- 73mph in a 20mph zone
Speeding enforcement has ramped up too, with officers issuing over 4,000 notices since lockdown began—a 71% rise despite 40% fewer cars on the road.
Fatal Crashes on the Rise
Speeding isn’t just reckless, it’s deadly. Since lockdown, there have been ten fatal collisions linked primarily to speeding. The Met warns this behaviour could have tragic consequences for families left devastated.
Detective Superintendent Andy Cox of the Metropolitan Police said: “Most Londoners have stuck to government advice and stayed home. But a small minority are abusing quieter roads, driving at extreme speeds, putting themselves and others at huge risk.”
“Heading into the Bank Holiday weekend, we urge everyone to only make essential trips—and to drive sensibly and legally. There’s no excuse to speed. We need to treat speeding as socially unacceptable, just like drink-driving.”
“Challenge those who speed—whether family, friends, colleagues or yourself. Fast driving burdens emergency services already stretched thin during these times. Roads will be policed 24/7, and offenders will be caught.”
“Our message is clear: slow down, respect speed limits, and save lives.”
Stay Safe This Bank Holiday
The Met’s warning couldn’t be clearer. Less traffic doesn’t mean you can race like a maniac. Police will be out in force, ready to nail anyone who puts themselves and Londoners in danger. For your sake—and everyone else’s—keep calm, drive safe, and obey the limits this Bank Holiday.
