An AA expert has busted two common speed camera myths and says drivers can not avoid getting caught and penalised. Speed camera shave been in use across the Uk since 1991 and it is estimated they have reduced accidents by between 58% and 68% - according to a study from the London School of Economics.
But while the cameras cut accidents and save lives, some drivers would still rather avoid them and believe here are ways you can trick the system - either by not getting caught or using loopholes to avoid points and a fine.
A spokesman for the AA said: "You shouldn't be trying to avoid getting caught. It's safer for everyone to stick to the limits - and the law - by not speeding in the first place."
One of the common myths the AA identified was the belief drivers can fool the speed calculations on an average speed camera network by changing lanes, reports The Echo. The AA spokesman said: "While older speed cameras could’ve been ‘tricked’, more advanced cameras now use multiple sets of cameras at each point to track all the lanes and compare average speeds.
"While older speed cameras could’ve been ‘tricked’, more advanced cameras now use multiple sets of cameras at each point to track all the lanes and compare average speeds."
The AA also debunked another common myth that speed cameras need to be visible in order for the offender to be penalised. The spokesman said: "Just because you didn’t see a speed camera clearly doesn’t mean the fine is invalid. They aren't there to be spotted and dodged - the point of them is to encourage drivers to stick within the speed limit."
So speed cameras do not have to be visible, they do not have to be painted yellow and there do not need to be signs warning you of speed cameras.
Another common myth is that there is a 10% 'tolerance' allowing you to go up to 10% faster than the speed limit. While police have been advised by the National Police Chiefs Council that they can apply this rule, it is just guidance - so going just 1mph over the limit could land you in trouble.
The one fact that will get you out of a fine is that tickets have to be issued within 14 days of the offence.
According to UK Car Discount: "An NIP (Notice of Intended Prosecution) must be posted to the vehicle’s registered keeper within 14 days of the offence otherwise the ticket is invalidated.
"The issuer will typically have to obtain proof of sending;/postage. The NIP will be accompanied by a section 172 notice, the section 172 must be returned to the police within 28 days notifying them of who was driving the vehicle when the offence was committed."
