Most drivers know the feeling. You see a yellow box in the side of the road and you quickly check your speedometer. But even if you're just slightly over the limit, are you actually safe?
In short, speed camera tolerance is the small buffer above the speed limit some cameras allow before triggering a penalty. It exists primarily to account for minor inaccuracies in speedometers and speed camera technology. However, it is not an excuse to push to the limit on your daily commute.
You might have heard of the common rule of thumb 10% plus 2 miles per hour. However, here's the crucial catch. This is not a legal right.
You can still be fined for even going just 1 miles per hour over the speed limit. If you are caught speeding, there are real consequences.
The minimum penalty is typically a £100 fine and three points on your licence.
For more serious offences, you could face higher fines, more points on your licence, or even a driving ban.
In some minor cases, you might actually be offered to take a speed awareness course as opposed to points on your licence.
The financial impact doesn't stop with a fine either. Penalty points stay on your licence for up to 4 years, and insurance companies take them into account for up to five.
Simply put, a speeding penalty is more than likely to increase your future car insurance costs. If a speed camera does catch you, you'll likely receive a notice of intended prosecution in the post within 14 days. The safest and most cost effective option is to always stick to the speed limit.
For more simple and reliable guides on driving and insurance, visit Confused.com.
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