Do Speed Cameras Really Make Our Roads Safer?

29/07/08 Bulletin 

It may not have escaped your notice that speed cameras have been in the news a lot recently, and even if you haven't noticed the headlines, no doubt you will have an opinion on this contentious topic. There seems to be a lot of controversy about the value and effectiveness of speed cameras. They are, police claim, installed as part of the government's key strategy for reducing the number of road accident casualties. But does the theory that speed cameras enforce a law that will save lives cohere with the reality?

What the Media Say ...

The tabloids suggest that it doesn't. Usually on the side of the law and against crime, the tabloids are shockingly against the use of speed cameras, saying that ironically, speed cameras - though they may reduce speed around speed camera littered areas - are in fact more likely to cause accidents than prevent them. According to the newspapers, many drivers are in agreement, and complain that the fear of getting caught for speeding results in a lack of concentration: they are so engrossed in breaking fast that they are not concentrating on the road or on other drivers, and they are so overcome with panic that they become flustered and are actually less safe as a result. Furthermore, it is not only those speeding that slam on the breaks: many driver's say that even if they are within the speed limit, the alert of a speed camera automatically makes them slow down. If you are driving behind someone who panics at the speed camera sign, then the sudden breaking can be dangerous for you if you don't react fast enough.

Do Cameras Reduce Overall Speed?

Others have complained that on roads where speed cameras are periodically installed, road user's increase their speed in the middle section far more than they would if they hadn't been interrupted in the first place. Another complaint is that the real motivation behind the placement of speed cameras is to raise revenue. This was sparked after newspapers reported that some cameras did not appear to be working properly, and that the Victoria police agreed that speed cameras were more about revenue raising than road safety!

Is Speed Really the Issue?

No matter your opinion on the effectiveness of speed cameras, everyone must agree that the idea behind them is something that needs to be addressed, even if speed cameras aren't the way forward. 39,994 people were injured on British roads in 2002, of which 3,431 people were killed. Perhaps the best way to combat road accidents and these shocking statistics is to simply have better drivers on the road.

The Real Answer? 

Advanced Driving Courses could help you become a significantly better and safer driver! We offer a wide range of driving courses to suit all needs. Our on road training instructors can pick you up from your home, assess your driving and listen to any particular worries you have, and then work on any weaknesses that need improving. At the end of your course, you will be given an assessment telling you what you needed to work on, and how well you have progressed during the session. The training will help you to be more aware of your speed and also when and why speed limits change, making you safer and less likely to be caught speeding. Advanced Driving Courses

Safer Driving For High Performance Car Owners

Alternatively, for those of you who like to drive fast, or equally for those who don't feel comfortable driving at high speeds, why not take a look at our Performance on track driving course? It has been specifically designed to improve your driving skills at high speeds, and increase your overall driving pleasure. It is a fantastic opportunity to experiment with the limits of your vehicle under the guidance and teaching of our experienced on track instructors, and to work developing your skill, knowledge and speed awareness making you a safer driver. Performance Driving Courses