Average Speed Cameras in the UK: 8 Myths Debunked!

Despite the increasing number of average speed cameras, many people still misunderstand how they operate. This has led to confusion and frustration among motorists who believe they’ve been unfairly fined. Let’s dispel these 8 myths about how do average speed cameras work.

1. Single Average Speed Camera Can Catch You

Many believe that average speed cameras work just like fixed speed cameras and a single camera is enough to catch you. Well, that’s simply not true. The average speed cameras work in pairs only. Each average speed camera is at least 200 metres apart from the other. By calculating the average speed over this distance, the system can determine if the vehicle exceeded the posted speed limit.

Average speed cameras are actually quite fair. They measure your average speed over a specific distance, which is more accurate than traditional speed cameras that measure your speed at a single point. This means that you won’t be unfairly penalised for a brief burst of speed.

Some people also ask how far away an average speed camera can catch me. Well, that would also seem like a pointless question now that you know how average speed cameras actually work.

2. Average Speed Cameras are Only Located on Highways

No. That’s not correct. Average speed cameras are not exclusive to highways. While they are commonly found on dual carriageways and motorways, they can also be installed on various types of roads, including urban streets, A roads, and even temporary roadworks. These cameras are used to monitor and enforce speed limits in different areas and under varying conditions.

Now, you might be wondering what do average speed cameras look like. Well, they are indicated by signs featuring an old-fashioned camera. Average speed cameras are typically mounted on tall, yellow poles alongside the road. Each traffic lane will have its own camera. Unlike traditional speed cameras, these are significantly taller and lack the distinctive double flash.

3. 50mph Average Speed Camera Tolerance is +2 mph

The myth that 50mph average speed cameras have a tolerance of +2 mph is inaccurate. While some leeway is built into all speed cameras, the specific tolerance for average speed cameras is not universally set at +2 mph for 50 mph zones. Using the common 10% + 2 mph guideline means that in a 50mph zone, the camera might not activate until a vehicle reaches 57 mph.

However, these tolerances are not legally binding and can be adjusted at any time. Technically, driving even 1 mph over the speed limit is breaking the law, and you could be prosecuted.

Speaking of tolerances, you can also receive an offer to attend a speed awareness course in the UK, if you’re caught speeding. However, that’s usually tied to how above the speed limit you were going.

4. You’ll be Fined Once if Caught by a Traffic Enforcement Camera

It’s a misconception that you’ll only be fined once if caught by a traffic enforcement camera. A single zone can have multiple pairs of cameras, and if you exceed the speed limit at each pair, you could potentially receive multiple speeding penalties.

The penalty for being caught by an average speed camera is similar to other speed cameras, with a minimum fine of £100 and three points on your licence. The severity of the penalty increases with the extent of the speeding violation. In extreme cases, you could face up to six points on your licence, disqualification, and a maximum fine of £1,000 (£2,500 for motorway offences).

5. You Will Get Flashed by an Average Speed Camera

The myth that you will get flashed by an average speed camera is incorrect. Unfortunately, with average speed cameras, there is no immediate feedback like a flash or warning light. The average speed cameras rely on infrared technology to read licence plates. This means there is no visual indication of being caught by an average speed camera.

6. You Can Beat Average Speed Cameras by Changing Lanes

If you’re wondering how to beat average speed cameras, you’re barking up the wrong tree. The belief that one can “beat” average speed cameras is a misconception. These cameras calculate the average speed over a specific distance, not just at a single point. Therefore, slowing down near only one camera will not prevent detection if the overall average speed exceeds the limit.

Moreover, modern average speed camera systems are capable of monitoring multiple lanes and tracking vehicles that change lanes within the monitored section. While earlier systems might have been susceptible to lane changes, current technology can effectively track vehicles across all lanes.

7. Average Speed Cameras Don’t Work at Night or in Poor Weather

The claim that average speed cameras don’t work at night or in poor weather is false. These cameras utilise infrared technology, which allows them to read licence plates even in low light or adverse weather conditions. This means that drivers cannot evade detection simply by driving at night or during inclement weather.

8. Average Speed Cameras Can Catch You on Phone

This is a common misconception, but it’s not accurate. Average speed cameras are designed to measure vehicle speed over a set distance, not to detect phone usage. These cameras typically only capture the vehicle’s licence plate, not images of the driver or the interior of the car.

If you’re caught speeding by an average speed camera, you’ll receive a form to identify the driver at the time of the offence. It proves that the average speed cameras themselves do not capture this information. The primary purpose of average speed cameras is to enforce speed limits consistently over longer stretches of road, improving overall road safety.

Wrapping Up: 8 Myths About Average Speed Cameras Debunked!

Average speed cameras are not just a nuisance; they serve a vital purpose in protecting lives and preventing accidents. Ultimately, the most reliable way to avoid penalties from average speed cameras is to consistently adhere to the posted speed limits. By adhering to speed limits and driving responsibly, we can all contribute to safer roads for everyone.