Speed cameras are an everyday reality of life on the roads.

Love them or loathe them they are there to stop speeding and curb dangerous driving and they might also raise a bit of revenue.

But while their existence may be a fact of life, some of the stories that have circulated about them over the years are frankly fiction

Now road safety charity Brake has shattered some of the myths about cameras and how to avoid a speeding ticket.

Not all speed cameras work, some are switched off - True

A Brake spokesman said: “Various freedom of information requests have revealed that some speed cameras are not fully operational in the UK.

The GoSafe operator shows a note to explain he is authorised by the chief constable carry out his role before driving off


You have to be driving at least 10% above the limit, plus 2mph, to get caught - False (ish)

The law says a driver can be issued a speeding ticket as soon as they exceed the speed limit on a road, even if that is only by 1mph.

However, guidance provided by the National Police Chiefs Council suggests officers do not seek prosecution of a driver until they have exceeded the speed limit by 10%, plus 2mph.


A GoSafe van on the A494
A Go Safe speed camera van on the A494



Speed cameras must be painted yellow to be legal - False

The Government wants all speed cameras in England painted yellow. But if you’re caught on a grey one before that happens, tough - the offence is still valid.


The spokesman from Brake told Gazette Live : “Average speed cameras are an effective way to prevent dangerous driver behaviour.

A speed camera in Greenfield, Flintshire


You can even get caught on a bike or a horse - False


Average speed cameras



The notice goes to the individual the vehicle is registered to.

New speeding fines guide

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You can request a speed awareness course - False




