New ‘smart’ speed cameras rolled out on busy roads as police target British drivers
New speed cameras introduced on busy sections of road in the West Midlands have been introduced, with many drivers taking notice of the new roadside measures.
The initial phase saw 20 cameras installed across Staffordshire, chosen based on long-term data demonstrating their effectiveness in reducing road traffic collisions.
This upgrade, funded by the Staffordshire Safer Roads Partnership, aims to improve efficiency in capturing and processing speeding offences.
The new technology utilises radar devices for accurate speed measurement and will automatically send high-quality images of offending vehicles to the enforcement team.
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The new cameras do not require painted lines on the road as they have the capability to use a digitally applied line on offence images for secondary checks.
This enhances the efficiency of verifying valid offences. The radar device accurately measures vehicle speeds, automatically sending images of those exceeding the limit to the enforcement team.
These advancements aim to streamline the process of identifying and prosecuting speeding offenders, ultimately contributing to improved road safety across Staffordshire.
Inspector Mark Joynson of the 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.”
Joynson added that the new technology would make speed checks easier across Staffordshire and serve as a visual reminder of their daily efforts to keep all road users safe.
Some drivers have praised the new technology for being more eye-catching, reinforcing the need for motorists to follow the rules and drive safely.
One motorist noted that they were “suddenly very aware of their speed” after seeing the camera, noting that they felt more pressure with the sleek new design.
The new cameras look relatively plain, with a grey exterior, rather than the distinctive yellow that drivers have become accustomed to, Stoke on Trent Live reported.
Deputy Staffordshire Commissioner Helen Fisher highlighted the importance of road safety, stating, “Sadly, too many people continue to die or suffer serious injuries on our roads, with devastating consequences for their families, friends and communities.”
She emphasised that speed is a primary factor in fatal accidents and a concern for many communities.
Fisher added that the investment in new technology would facilitate easier identification of lawbreakers and contribute to reducing road accidents.
The Staffordshire Safer Roads Partnership (SSRP) includes Staffordshire Police, Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service, Stoke-on-Trent City Council, Staffordshire County Council and National Highways.
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Through collaborative efforts, these organisations aim to enhance road safety across the region and crack down on dangerous motorists.