The RAC is warning motorists that new speed cameras expected to assist in enforcing variable speed limits on stretches of motorways may also be used by the police to enforce 70 mph on a widespread basis.
What is the present position?
At the moment, cameras are only used on stretches of road affected by road works, but the Highways Agency plans to roll them out over some of the busiest parts of the network.
How will speed limits be enforced?
New cameras, dubbed HADECS3 (Highways Agency Digital Enforcement Camera System) are to be installed which are designed to enforce speed limits on those motorways that are set up to use the hard shoulder permanently or temporarily as a running lane. There are, however, fears that the Police could choose to use the verge-mounted grey cameras to monitor speeds on all four lanes of traffic.
Where will the first cameras be installed?
The new cameras will initially be installed along the M1, M6 and M25, some 100 miles of motorway within two years, with the further roll-out amassing up to 400 miles.
When will the new cameras be introduced?
Their introduction is likely to be imminent, although no date has specifically set.
What benefits will the cameras bring?
It is hoped the move will prevent jams and allow better traffic flow by controlling speed limits and opening hard shoulders to traffic during busy periods.
Will the introduction of cameras improve road safety?
Motoring groups claim the introduction of these cameras is not about road safety but about generating income through fines and some experts have pointed out that less visible cameras will have no impact on reducing the speed of drivers.
Roger Lawson, from the Alliance of British Drivers said "We are opposed to speed cameras in general. The evidence of their success in promoting safety is not good and in reality what is happening now is that the Police are using speed cameras to fund their other activities through speed awareness courses."
RAC Technical Director David Bizley said "While effectively managing speeds on motorways may be welcomed by some, the RAC remains concerned that they may encourage motorists to drastically reduce speed as they spot the cameras.
In response to the criticism a spokesperson for the Highways Agency said "These are not stealth cameras, they are more visible than they were before. These cameras are not about speed limits. They are about smoothing the traffic flows and increasing capacity. The onus is on the driver to abide by the speed limit."
Summary
Whether the new cameras have any positive impact on road safety is yet to be seen, but motorists will need to be extra vigilant if they want to avoid speeding convictions.
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