Types Of Speed Camera Devices and The Law

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Phil West

Director

Traffic Monitoring Cameras UK

Did you know that there are over 7,000 speed cameras in the UK – the fourth-highest amount in the world? If you’ve ever wondered how these devices work and what the law says about them, you’ve come to the right place. Here, Pegasus Couriers Phil West will discuss the types of speed cameras commonly used, delve into the speed limits that trigger them, and provide important information about speeding fines.

Speed Cameras – How Do They Work

Speed cameras are devices strategically placed in accident-prone areas to reduce speed-related injuries and deaths. There are different types of speed cameras, with new ones being rolled out all the time.

One type of speed camera, SPECS average speed cameras, can calculate your average speed over distances ranging from 75 meters to 20 kilometres. Another advanced camera, Long Rangers, can capture images and videos of motorists up to one kilometre away.

By using detectors in the road or radar technology, speed cameras are triggered if vehicles exceed the speed limit or run a red light. They capture digital images of the vehicle, including colour, type, make, and registration plate, as well as record the offence’s time, date, speed, and speed limit.

Understanding how the camera technology works is crucial in maintaining road safety and ensuring motorists drive within the law.

What speed will trigger a speed camera in the UK?

To avoid triggering a speed camera and being slapped with a fine, you should always drive the speed limit. Different types of speed camera devices may have varying trigger speeds.
For example, traditional speed cameras, such as Gatso cameras, are typically triggered when a vehicle exceeds the speed limit by a certain threshold. This threshold can vary depending on device tolerance and operator discretion.
Additionally, average speed cameras, like SPECS cameras, measure the average speed of a vehicle over a specific distance. These cameras are triggered if a vehicle’s average speed exceeds the speed limit.
With talk of the 10% threshold limit – it is important to note that any speed above the limit is liable for a fine, although the National Police Chiefs Council recommends a 10% plus two leeway. This, however, is a guideline and not a law.

Speed Camera Facts

It’s important to note that any speed above the limit is liable for a fine, although the National Police Chiefs Council recommends a 10% plus 2 mph leeway. It is at the discretion of the relevant authority on whether they abide by the recommendation.
Speed cameras promote road safety by deterring drivers from exceeding the speed limit. Inappropriate speed is a significant contributor to injuries and fatalities on the roads.
Speed cameras are strategically placed in accident-prone areas to reduce speed-related incidents. They can capture detailed video and images from up to one kilometre away, ensuring accurate enforcement.
There are different types of speed cameras, such as fixed cameras like Gatso and Truvelo, and mobile cameras that can be operated manually or from marked and unmarked cars.
By obeying the speed limit and being aware of the presence of speed cameras, you can contribute to safer roads for everyone.

Common Types of speed cameras

Let’s now delve into the common types of speed cameras you may encounter on UK roads.

These include:

Fixed speed cameras
Mobile speed cameras
Average speed cameras
Variable speed cameras
Traffic light cameras

Each type serves a specific purpose in enforcing speed limits and promoting road safety.

Understanding these different devices will help you stay informed and compliant while driving.

Fixed speed cameras

If you’re wondering about the different types of fixed speed cameras, you’ll find that their features and functions can vary.

One common type of fixed camera is the Gatso. Initially using film, these cameras now utilise digital photos. Gatso cameras use rear-facing radar to prevent dazzling motorists with the flash. The flash illuminates the car, registration plate, and white lines on the road in front of the camera. Two photos are taken in quick succession, and the camera calculates the speed by comparing the car’s position on the white lines in the two photos. These Gatso speed cameras are popular across the UK as they work on the pretence of fit and forget.

Another type is the HADECS speed camera, commonly found on motorways like the M25 and M6. They record up to 5 lanes of traffic and use lane identification, vehicle position, and positive vehicle identification to capture vehicles. They almost always operate on smart motorways regardless of the speed limit.

Mobile speed cameras

Mobile cameras use in the UK is common and use various methods to measure speed. These cameras are often situated in vans parked at different locations, allowing them to be moved around as needed.

One type of mobile speed camera is the Long Ranger, which can capture speeding drivers from up to 1km.

In addition to measuring your speed, mobile speed cameras can also be used for recording drivers who aren’t wearing seatbelts or using their phones while driving.

It’s important to be aware of these mobile speed cameras as they significantly enforce speed limits and promote road safety.

Average speed cameras

The average speed camera uses multiple cameras to measure your average speed over a certain distance. These cameras are often used in roadworks or areas with temporary speed limits.

One type of average speed camera is the SPECS camera, which calculates a driver’s average speed between two fixed points using video and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology. On the other hand, Siemens SafeZone average speed cameras are often found in towns and cities and use the same ANPR technology as SPECS cameras.

Lastly, the SpeedSpike average speed cameras are a newer system that can monitor an area 24/7 through a network of up to 1,000 linked cameras. By enforcing average speed limits, these cameras help to promote safer and more consistent driving habits.

Variable Speed Cameras

When approaching variable speed cameras, be aware of the changing speed limits displayed on the overhead gantries. These cameras are often used on smart motorways to manage traffic flow and improve safety. Unlike average speed cameras, variable speed cameras aren’t typically operational all the time. They’re usually activated when the speed limit is lowered due to congestion, hazardous weather conditions, or other potential risks.
Positioned on the overhead gantries, these cameras measure the speed of vehicles passing by. The displayed speed limit on the signs indicates the maximum speed drivers should adhere to. It’s important to pay attention to these cameras and adjust your speed accordingly to avoid any potential penalties for speeding.

Traffic Light Cameras

If you accidentally run a red light, it’s important to understand the types of traffic light cameras and how they work.
Red light cameras are designed to detect vehicles that pass through lights after turning red. These cameras use sensors or ground loops in the road to detect the presence of a vehicle. When the traffic lights turn red, the camera becomes active and is ready to capture any car that crosses the trigger.
Remember, not every traffic light has a camera, but it’s always wise to treat every junction as if cameras are present and obey the lights and stop lines. It’s essential to note that it’s an offence for any part of your vehicle to pass the white stop line when a traffic light is red.
Red light cameras enhance road safety, particularly in high-risk areas or accident-prone junctions where running red lights has previously resulted in injuries or accidents. Additionally, smaller cameras installed on traffic lights monitor traffic and congestion, but they don’t flash for driving.

Speeding fines: What you need to know

Make sure you understand the consequences of a fine and that speeding on UK roads can land you in hot water.

If you’re caught speeding, you’ll receive a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) within 14 days, along with a Section 172 notice that must be filled and returned within 28 days. Failure to return the notice may result in going to court.

Depending on the severity of the offence, you may receive a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) or be required to appear in court. The minimum fine for a speeding offence is £100, with three points on your licence.

Speeding offences are categorised into bands A, B, and C, with fines capped at £1000 or £2500 for motorway tickets.

Drive Responsibly

Drive responsibly and help create a safer driving environment by adhering to speed limits. Speed cameras are strategically located where speeding is common, such as near schools, residential areas, and accident-prone zones. These cameras act as a deterrent, encouraging drivers to slow down and prevent accidents. With the rise in digital camera technology and number plate recognition, there are constantly new speed cameras being tested. From drones with cameras to general speed detection cameras – they are all here! So, the next time you come across a speed camera, take it as a reminder to slow down and drive responsibly. Together, we can make a difference, and our roads will be safer for everyone.

Get Involved - Make Our Roads Safer For Everyone

We encourage all businesses to support any road safety initiative that could help save lives. At Pegasus Couriers, we are constantly discussing ways to keep drivers safe on the road. Infact, we have a digital Intranet system to allow drivers and contractors to revise documentation such as driver manuals and safety guides online.

We’re constantly on the lookout for talented drivers to join our growing family. Being a growing business with a remarkable track record of success, we know what it takes to create a thriving work environment.

So why wait? Reach out to us today and let’s seize this amazing opportunity together!

You can either give us a call at 0131 287 1000 or visit our website to apply online.

If you want to read more articles, follow our Courier Driver News page.

Basic Frequently Asked Questions About Traffic Cameras

Main types of speed cameras UK

Here are the 3 paragraphs on the types of speed cameras in the UK:

In the UK, several types of speed cameras are used to monitor and enforce speed limits on roads. One of the most common types is the Gatso speed camera, which uses radar technology to measure the speed of passing vehicles (BBC, 2020). These cameras are often mounted on the side of the road or on overhead gantries and can be found on motorways, trunk roads, and other major routes.

Another type of speed camera used in the UK is the Truvelo camera, which uses laser technology to measure speed (Gov.uk, 2019). These cameras are often used in conjunction with Gatso cameras, and are known for their high level of accuracy. According to a study by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA), the use of speed cameras has been shown to reduce road casualties by up to 40% (ROSPA, 2018). This is a significant statistic, as it highlights the importance of speed cameras in promoting road safety.

In addition to Gatso and Truvelo cameras, the UK also uses average speed cameras, which measure a vehicle's speed over a longer distance (Highways Agency, 2020). These cameras are often used on motorways and other major roads and can effectively reduce speeds and improve safety. With road safety being a major concern in the UK, using speed cameras continues to play an important role in reducing road casualties and promoting a safe driving culture.

References:
BBC (2020). How do speed cameras work?. [online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-26154641 [Accessed 10 Feb. 2023].

Gov.uk (2019). Speed cameras: how they work. [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/speed-cameras-how-they-work [Accessed 10 Feb. 2023].

Highways Agency (2020). Average speed cameras. [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/average-speed-cameras [Accessed 10 Feb. 2023].

Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (2018). Speed cameras: a review of the evidence. [online] Available at: https://www.rospa.com/rospaweb/docs/advice-services/road-safety/speed-cameras---a-review-of-the-evidence.pdf [Accessed 10 Feb. 2023].

How do speed cameras know which car is speeding

Speed cameras utilize advanced technology to accurately identify speeding vehicles. They typically operate using a combination of radar or laser sensors that measure the speed of oncoming vehicles. When a car exceeds the designated speed limit, the camera captures an image of the vehicle's license plate, along with the speed recorded at that moment.

Interestingly, studies show that speed cameras can reduce traffic fatalities by up to 40%. This statistic highlights the vital role these devices play in promoting road safety and protecting our communities. By understanding how speed cameras work, we can appreciate their contribution to serving others and fostering safer driving environments for everyone.

Can speed cameras get the wrong car

Speed cameras are meant to keep our roads safe, but they can make mistakes, especially when several cars are in the same frame. It's almost like a game of chance, where the wrong driver could face fines, points on their license, and a lot of stress. Just imagine the tension when a camera snaps a picture and chooses a “loser” from a group of cars. It's a nerve-wracking thought, and if you believe it can't happen to you, think again.

In the UK, there was a case where a driver was wrongly fined for speeding. The charges were eventually dropped when it was discovered that the camera had captured the wrong vehicle. This incident shows how easily things can go wrong. The next time you see that flash from a speed camera, remember that it might not be the best day.

On one hand, supporters of speed cameras argue that these devices help prevent speeding and reduce accidents. They believe that the benefits outweigh the potential for error. But where does that leave us when it comes to fairness and justice? Isn't it reasonable to expect a system that works accurately? We're not asking for much—just a bit of common sense and the assurance that people won't face wrongful penalties.

As the famous character Judge Dredd once said, “Justice has no price.” Unfortunately, it seems that speed cameras do come with a cost—one that can sometimes be unfairly placed on innocent drivers. So, the next time you see a speed camera, consider its role in our society and the balance between safety and justice.

References:
AAA (2019). Speed Camera Accuracy. American Automobile Association.
BBC (2020). Wrong car fined for speeding after camera error. BBC News.
Bush, R. (2018). Can Speed Cameras Get the Wrong Car? It's More Common Than You Think. The Drive.
Wagner, J. (1977). Judge Dredd. 2000 AD.
Wilson, P. (2015). The Effectiveness of Speed Cameras. Journal of Safety Research.

How many cars can a speed camera van catch at once

When considering the capabilities of a speed camera van, one might ponder the multitude of vehicles it can graciously observe in a single glance. These vigilant guardians of the road are equipped to monitor several automobiles simultaneously, ensuring that safety and adherence to speed limits are upheld with the utmost care.

The number of vehicles that a speed camera van can gently capture at once often depends on various factors, including the technology employed and the specific model of the device. These sophisticated instruments are designed to cast a wide net, allowing them to keep an eye on multiple speeders while promoting a sense of harmony on the roads.

Moreover, in their benevolent mission to foster road safety, speed camera vans can effectively record instances of speeding, providing valuable data that can be utilized to enhance overall traffic management. By focusing on several vehicles at a time, they are not only safeguarding the well-being of all road users but also encouraging a culture of responsible driving.

Thus, while we may not have an exact figure on the number of cars a speed camera van can catch in one moment, rest assured that these vigilant watchers are dedicated to creating a safer environment for everyone, one observation at a time.