Speed cameras: A snapshot of public opinion

Road safety cameras (speed cameras) are in use across England, Scotland and Wales and have been for over twenty years, since the Road Traffic Act (1991) enabled courts to accept evidence from approved cameras.

Speed cameras are an emotive issue for motorists with many sceptical of their effectiveness in reducing road injury and death and some suggestion that they may actually lead to increased casualties. The vast majority of evidence from within the UK and comparable international examples is that speed cameras do, often significantly, reduce road casualties.

Our survey continues to show widespread support for the use of speed cameras as a road safety measure. This is supported by similar research in the UK and overseas which supports the effectiveness of using speed cameras to reduce injuries and deaths on the road.