Drivers caught off guard by Highway Code rules as thousands slapped with fines

Over 200,000 drivers were hit with fines for violating Highway Code rules during the summer months last year, marking a record high. A Freedom of Information request revealed that in July and August of the previous year, 203,801 individuals were convicted of speeding offences. Interestingly, Humberside had the fewest speeding violations, with just over 9,000 tickets issued between July and August 2023.

Other areas with a high number of fines include West Mercia (21,266), Nottinghamshire (16,400), North Wales (15,998), and South Yorkshire (15,541). This was followed by Northern Ireland (14,292), Lincolnshire (12,057), Bedfordshire (11,388), Leicestershire (10,389), and Humberside (9,072). Lancashire, which has 225 speed cameras operating across the region, is the UK location with the most speed cameras.

The majority of people caught speeding on these cameras were slapped with a GBP100 fine and three points on their licence. The GBP100 fine is mandatory and will be issued to everyone caught, but drivers can avoid the points and opt for a speed awareness course if it is offered by the police. Humberside has been revealed as the location with the fewest speeding violations, with just over 9,000 tickets recorded between July and August 2023.

Other areas with a high number of fines include West Mercia (21,266), Nottinghamshire (16,400), North Wales (15,998) and South Yorkshire (15,541). This was followed by Northern Ireland (14,292), Lincolnshire (12,057), Bedfordshire (11,388), Leicestershire (10,389) and Humberside (9,072). Lancashire is the UK location with the most speed cameras, boasting 225 across the region.

The majority of people caught speeding on these cameras were hit with a GBP100 fine and three points on their licence. This GBP100 fine is compulsory for every one caught, but drivers can avoid the points and opt for a speed awareness course if it is offered by the police. Driving experts at Yell explained: “All speeding fines in the UK are calculated as a percentage of weekly income after tax and National Insurance deductions are applied.

The law states that you are liable for a speeding fine as soon as you exceed the limit, so if you’re doing 31mph in a 30 limit or 71mph on a motorway, you’re breaking the law and will receive one of the above fines if caught.” The fines for these offences are capped at GBP1,000 and GBP2,500 if the motorist is caught speeding on a motorway. In addition to speeding, the Highway Code contains 307 guidelines that could count as traffic offences, which can also lead to fines.

This can vary from splashing pedestrians in the rain, which could count as reckless driving, to more severe cases such as driving with number plates being covered. Experts at the AA detailed: “The intricacies of the Highway Code can sometimes catch drivers off guard. Our aim is to ensure that all motorists are aware of these lesser-known rules to avoid unnecessary fines and ensure road safety.”

“It’s not just about the common offences like speeding or running a red light; understanding and adhering to these regulations can significantly enhance your driving experience and keep you and others safe on the road.”

Louise Thomas, motor expert at Confused.com explained that it’s not always easy to judge “your speed through an educated guess”.

References

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