Running the gauntless

A survey amongst my friends and acquaintances revealed that none of us are aware of anybody receiving a fine for exceeding the speed limit in an average speed camera zone. Unless we only mix in law-abiding company, which I doubt, do these yellow erections actually work or are they just an expensive alternative to cutout cardboard policemen? Hearsay has that if you change lanes then the cameras are not effective and has this been confirmed, assuming that the technology works in the first instance?

Asked on 21 November 2009 by

Answered by Honest John
Readers have been done. Tends to happen at night when the roads are clear and there is no justification for cameras because no one is working on the road. In the daytime, the weight of traffic they cause usually enforces the speed limit imposed. There is some evidence that average speed cameras actually cause crashes, as they did in the contraflow past Junction 3 of the M3 on 21st October, leading to some serious injuries and massive commuter congestion.
Similar questions
Lots of arrogant persistent lawbreakers (speeders) often complain that speed cameras are a revenue stream for the government. With our huge deficit needing paying back somehow, I'd far rather see these...
Over the years I have read your columns with interest and enthusiasm, but I always felt uncomfortable with your negative stance over speed cameras. Feeling that I am nearing the end of my life, I took...
I know that you consider speed cameras are largely a means to raise extra income, so what is your opinion of bus lane cameras on pointless bus lanes? By pointless I mean short lengths of bus lane just...
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer