Big changes to make speed cameras more intelligent as upgrades …
Speed cameras in the Midlands are to undergo upgrades to make them more 'intelligent' and catch more drivers. Work is due to start next week on upgrades to fixed speed cameras in Staffordshire as part of police moves to improve road safety.
Police chiefs said an initial 20 cameras across the region would be upgraded, with work taking several weeks. Digital equipment will replace the current fixed safety cameras, making it quicker to capture and receive images of those who travel above the speed limit.
The exact locations have not been revealed but the force said they had been chosen "based on long-term data which confirms that the cameras have been very effective in reducing road traffic collisions". The cutting-edge technology, funded by the Staffordshire Safer Roads Partnership, uses a radar device to accurately measure the speed of each vehicle that passes the camera.
POLL: Should Birmingham follow Wales and impose a 20mph speed limit on restricted roads?[2]
The cameras will automatically send high-quality images of any vehicles exceeding the speed limit to the enforcement team. One of the big changes to how most drivers will be used to speed cameras is these ones don't require lines to be painted on the road.
Instead, a secondary check is undertaken using a digitally applied line on the offence images. Inspector Mark Joynson, of the force’s Roads Policing Unit, said: “Speed limits are really important for road safety as the speed a vehicle travels at is a major contributor to the outcome if someone is involved in a road traffic collision.
“The installation of the new technology will make it easier to check speeds across Staffordshire[3] and we hope they will provide a visual reminder of the work we do every day to keep all road users as safe as possible.” Deputy Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime, Helen Fisher, said: “Keeping Staffordshire’s roads safe is a key priority for myself and the Commissioner.
“Sadly, too many people continue to die or suffer serious injuries on our roads, with devastating consequences for their families, friends and communities. Speed is one of the main factors in fatal road accidents, and an ongoing concern for many of our communities. This investment in new technology will make it easier to identify those breaking the law and help to reduce road accidents.”
References
- ^ Car criminals 'using new method to steal cars in 9 out of 10 thefts' as drivers warned they don't need your keys (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
- ^ Should Birmingham follow Wales and impose a 20mph speed limit on restricted roads? (xd.wayin.com)
- ^ Staffordshire (www.birminghammail.co.uk)