11 Speed Camera Myths Uncovered
Published:
September 8, 2024

Speed Camera Myths: What’s Fact and What’s Fiction?

Many myths surround speed cameras, leaving drivers confused about what they can and can’t do. Here we answer the most common questions and set the record straight.

1. Are Speed Cameras Always On?

Answer: No, not always

Not all speed cameras in the UK are active all the time. While some are switched off, you can’t tell which ones are operational, so it’s best to treat them all as active and check your speed whenever you see one.

2. Can Speed Cameras Catch You on the Other Side of the Road?

Answer: Yes, some can

While fixed cameras usually focus on one direction, mobile speed cameras, such as radar guns operated by the police, can catch you from the opposite side of the road. Stay cautious on both sides.

3. Do Speed Cameras Always Flash When They Catch You?

Answer: No, not all do

Not all speed cameras flash when they catch a speeder. While Gatso cameras flash, others, like average speed cameras, don’t rely on a flash, so don’t let the absence of a flash fool you into thinking you’re safe.

4. Can Speed Cameras Catch You Using Your Phone?

Answer: Yes, newer ones can

Modern cameras, like the ‘yellow vultures’, can catch drivers using their phones, not wearing seatbelts, or even eating while driving. These cameras face the front of the vehicle and can work day or night.

5. Do Speed Cameras Have to Be Yellow to Be Legal?

Answer: No, they don’t

Speed cameras don’t have to be yellow to be legal. Although most are brightly coloured for visibility, grey or more discreet cameras are still operational and can issue valid tickets.

6. Do Average Speed Cameras Really Work?

Answer: Yes, absolutely

Average speed cameras calculate your speed over a longer distance, making them highly effective. You can’t speed up after passing one and expect to avoid detection – it’s your average speed that counts.

7. Do Speeding Tickets Need to Be Issued Within a Certain Time to Be Valid?

Answer: Yes, within 14 days

If you’re caught speeding, authorities must send a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) within 14 days. If you don’t receive the notice in this time, the ticket may not be valid.

8. Do You Have to Be 10% Over the Limit to Be Caught?

Answer: No, you can be caught for going 1 mph over

Technically, you can receive a speeding ticket for exceeding the limit by just 1 mph. However, most police forces follow a guideline allowing a 10% plus 2 mph buffer, but don’t rely on this – you can be fined for any speed above the limit.

9. Can Speed Cameras Catch You in Bad Weather?

Answer: Yes, they can

Rain, fog, or other weather conditions don’t prevent speed cameras from working. Modern cameras are equipped with advanced technology to function in all types of weather, so don’t assume you’re safe from detection just because of bad conditions.

10. Can You Avoid Speed Cameras by Driving Really Fast?

Answer: No, you can’t

Some believe that driving fast enough will prevent a camera from capturing a clear image, but this is a myth. Modern cameras are designed to catch vehicles no matter how fast they are going.

11. Will Reflective Tape on Your Number Plate Stop Detection?

Answer: No, it’s illegal and ineffective

Using reflective tape to obscure your number plate is illegal, and modern cameras can still capture the information. Tampering with your number plate could lead to additional fines and legal trouble.

Stay Safe and Avoid Speeding Fines

The best way to avoid a speeding fine? Stick to the speed limit and drive safely. Speed cameras, whether they flash or not, are there to keep roads safe and prevent accidents.

At Tyres Northampton, we can help keep your vehicle in top shape with services such as wheel alignment, brake checks, and new tyres. Stay safe and ensure your car is road-ready by visiting our team of expert technicians.

11 Speed Camera Myths Uncovered

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11 Speed Camera Myths Uncovered
11 Speed Camera Myths Uncovered11 Speed Camera Myths Uncovered