subject: Speed Cameras: The Arguments For and Against [print this page] Speed Cameras: The Arguments For and Against
Speed cameras can cause equal parts anger and fear in even the calmest of motorists. Sites dedicated to mapping them exist on the net and drivers will often flash a friendly warning to oncoming traffic if there is a speed camera lying in wait ahead.
The arguments in favour of the cameras have found favour country wide. Though whether this is due to local councils spotting their money making potential, or whether they are concerned with road safety is a point that should be examined.
A lot of research has been carried out to prove the usefulness of speed cameras one way or another. Most arguments against speed cameras point to the manner in which they are used; namely, fining drivers as opposed to providing a long term solution by improving an area of dangerous road.
Those who oppose speed cameras state that this short term solution is a failure on the council's part in addressing a dangerous problem with a long term, sound, solution based on engineering. Whilst a camera is not an ideal solution, nevertheless, it is an attempt at addressing the situation and providing a temporary fix. Some however, complain that the devices are a dangerous distraction, and that speed camera warning signs divert the attention of drivers away from the road to scanning anxiously on the lookout for where they think the camera could be.
Arguments in favour of speed cameras are clearer cut. Since 1992 when the first cameras were installed deaths on urban and rural roads have fallen from around 2,600 in 1994 to around 2,300 in 2002. These statistics indicate a fall in fatalities. And that's without considering the rise in traffic volume, which in the UK was at 421540 million vehicle kilometres in 1994, and had grown to 498606 million vehicle kilometres by 2004.
Furthermore local communities insist that cameras have beneficial effects, often campaigning to have them installed in their area. Data from a recent survey adds to this positive outlook as it revealed that 91% of speeding offenders admitted to being more aware of their speed after having been caught by a camera and a further 39% stated that as a consequence they no longer speed.
In spite of the variety of arguments, there is an almost universal consensus that speed cameras do help save lives. To help make sure you don't get caught by one, drive sensibly and make sure you can see where you are going by getting maintenance such as windscreen repairs done in a timely fashion.
