IAM reveal speed cameras more accepted by motorists

Date posted: September 10, 2012

According to research by The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), “Eighty-two per cent of people now think it is acceptable for authorities to use speed cameras,” as they believe they are beneficial to road safety. However, there is still a vast majority of motorists who believe speed cameras are there to solely raise money.

The IAM’s research also reveals that 72 per cent of people believe that speed awareness courses are a great idea.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: “Simply catching and fining drivers does not change drivers’ awareness of the hazards of excessive speed. The popularity of speed awareness courses show that the public think training is the best option.

“Speed cameras are an essential part of the policing toolkit and are becoming more and more accepted, but it’s clear that some people need reassuring about their purpose and funding,” he added.

It seems there are varied views across the UK when it comes to speed cameras. Although 85 per cent of those surveyed in Scotland think the use of speed cameras is fine, a huge 32 per cent of respondents in Wales believe that speed camera are unacceptable.

It’s interesting to note however that Wales has the highest number of speed camera related convictions in the UK, which seems that areas with the least convictions accept the use of cameras a lot more.