Will I get a speeding ticket... what happens after the motorway or A-road flash (2024)

On your way to the airport, you’re in a rush and driving on unfamiliar roads. Suddenly, a flash goes off in your rear-view mirror. You know you shouldn’t have been speeding, but it’s easy to make mistakes when you’re under stress.

Getting flashed by a speed camera doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get a ticket. The time it takes to receive a ticket can vary depending on the location and the specific camera that caught your speed. Typically, you can expect to receive a ticket within a few weeks. However, there are a few things that can happen after you’re flashed by a speed camera:

  • You may be offered a speed awareness course. This is a non-adversarial course that is designed to educate drivers about the dangers of speeding. If you successfully complete the course, you won’t receive a speeding ticket.
  • You may be issued a speeding ticket. This will result in a fine and, depending on the severity of the offense, points on your driving record.
  • In the most serious circ*mstances, you may be sent to court. This could result in a fine, points on your license, or even a driving ban.

If you’re flashed by a speed camera, it’s important to stay calm and follow the instructions of the police. If you’re issued a speeding ticket, you should carefully consider your options before deciding whether to pay the fine or challenge it in court. To help ease the anxiety of whether you’ll get a ticket, here’s our instant guide to working out if you’re in line for points and a fine…

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Keep ahead of who or what’s watching you… and stay below the limit

Speed cameras on motorways and A-roads across the UK

With speed camera locations dotted all over the UK, it’s tricky to keep track. But don’t stress. We’ve got your go-to guide on what they do and how they all work.
Identify that speed camera here

Speed cameraLocationStealth rating
Simens SafeZoneA40 London2/5
GatsoA-roads2/5
SPECSAcross UK3/5
TruveloNorthampton / Hampshire3/5
Truvelo D-CamA- and B-roads / motorways4/5
SpeedSpikeHampshire4/5
Mobile cameraAcross UK4/5
HADECS 3Motorways5/5
VectorKent4/5
SpeedCurbAcross UK3/5
PeekGreater London / Berkshire2/5
DS2 camerasAcross UK5/5
DVLA camerasAcross UK4/5

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Checkwhat endorsem*nt are on your licence now

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Diary of a speeding ticket…

Find out what happens after you get flashed by a speed camera.

How fast will I need to be going to trigger a ticket: What the cops say

How fast will I need to be going to trigger a ticket: What the police say
Individual police forces can use discretion, but the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) has issued the following suggestion for enforcing speed limits:

Speed limitMin speed for a speeding ticketMin speed for prosecution
20mph24mph35mph
30mph35mph50mph
40mph46mph66mph
50mph57mph76mph
60mph68mph86mph
70 mph79mph96mph

Will you get a ticket:

Will you get a ticket? Was the speed camera working, or were you genuinely speeding? The police have 14 days to issue the registered keeper of the vehicle involved with a notice of intended prosecution (NIP). If this doesn’t arrive within 14 days, it’s likely you will not be liable for prosecution. However, this is not as clear cut as it sounds and you should get legal advice if it arrives after 14 days – simply ignoring it could result in prosecution and further speed camera penalty points. You must act on your belief that the ticket arrived too late.


Are there any other time limits:

Are there any other time limits?Once the NIP has been sent and complied with, the case must progress within six months. If this is not the case, seek legal advice and ask for it to be thrown out.


What next:

What next? You will have to comply with the request to identify the driver of the car involved within 28 days. Fail to do this and you could find your licence endorsed with six penalty points and a £1,000 fine.


What about fines and endorsem*nts:

What about fines and endorsem*nts?

The latest speed camera fines came into force on April 24, 2017– find out how much you’ll be fined if you’re caught speeding based on your weekly wage below.

BandMPH over stated speed limitFine (percentage of relevant weekly wage)Number of points on licence or length of disqualification
Band A1mph to 10mph25-75%3 points
Band B11mph to 20mph75-125%4-6 points or 7-28 days’ disqualification
Band COver 21mph125-175%6 points or 7-56 days’ disqualification

Depending on where you were caught speeding and how fast you were going over the speed limit, you’ll be placed into one of the above bands.

What you’ll be fined depends on what band you fall into, which will then dictate how much of your weekly income you’ll be charged on.

More on the new speeding fines here.


How long are speed penalty points valid:

How long are penalty points valid? Speed camera penalty points are valid on your licence for three years from the date of the offence, or from the date of your conviction if it’s heard in court. You will have to wait four years to have the offence completely wiped from your record.


Will taking a speed awareness course prevent points:

Will taking a speed awareness course prevent points? Yes, these courses are ran by many police forces across the UK and will mean you don’t get points added to your licence. You will have to pay to attend and they won’t apply to those convicted of serious speeding offences. It’s likely that those with a poor driving record won’t be offered the chance of attending such a course.


Types of speed cameras

With dozens of speed camera locations across the UK’s highways, we reveal what they all are and where you’re likely to find them.

Siemens SafeZone

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Siemens SafeZone average speed camera. Credit Siemens

What is it? These average speed cameras were introduced to replace spot cameras as part of a deal with Transport for London throughout 2015 and into 2016. Just like the units common within many sections of motorway road works, they record average speed over a measured distance. They work day and night, regardless of weather conditions. The cameras cover multiple lanes and cut costs by – as the name suggests – automatically identifying the car and reading its number plate.
Where is it? According to Smarthighways.net, 50 of them were installed at 24 locations on the A40 in London, with more on the A406, A316 and A2.

Gatso

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Gatso camera

What is it? It’s the cute cuddly speed camera we all know and love. Exceed the speed limit and it’ll use radar and camera technology to take several photos of the car as it passes over a grid of white lines on the road surface. Gatso devices are rear facing to stop drivers being blinded by the powerful flash they use to ensure the car’s number plate and position are recorded. Additionally, the lines on the road are merely a back-up and the camera can tell the speed a vehicle was travelling without them. Gatso cameras are smart too, and can distinguish between difference vehicle sizes – catching out HGVs and cars with caravans, etc. – that have separate speed limits. Many motorists would dodge speeding camera fines because the camera’s role of film had run out, however, but the new cameras take digital pictures and won’t run out of space.
Where are they? Mainly on busy A-roads, but the can be found just about anywhere. It is used to the case that they could only be located at accident black spots.

SPECS

What is it? These smart snoopers can monitor four lanes of traffic and are equipped with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR), and photograph every vehicle that passes beneath their gantry- or pole-mounted location. The data is then shared with a second unit at least 200m down the road and the car’s average speed is then calculated. The cameras don’t use film and can communicate with a remote processing centre where tickets are issued. Effective regardless of time of day or weather conditions.
Where are they? Motorways and dual carriageways across the UK, with some even starting to appear on rural roads with accident black spots.

Truvelo

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Truvelo: image credit

What is it? This is a forward-facing camera that works without a flash, so it won’t risk blinding the driver. These devices take a photo of the driver’s face – cutting the risk of unscrupulous motorists getting someone else to take their points for them. The device is linked to sensors embedded in the road surface, which calculate the speed and trigger the camera.
Where are they? The Truvelo isn’t widely employed across the UK, but anyone pulling on their driving gloves in Northamptonshire and Hampshire should be on the lookout.

Truvelo D-Cam

What is it? Meet Truvelo max! This updated version of the Truvelo uses lasers and can store up to 100,000 images on an internal drive, or ping photos directly – in real time – to a central processing hub. Unlike the standard Truvelo speed camera, the D-Cam can also be used as a forward- or rear-facing unit to keep motorists on their toes.
Where are they? You’ll find these on A and B-roads, motorways and on traffic light signals. They’re not overly common yet, but West Yorkshire has a policy of replacing all of its devices with these digital cameras over the coming years.

SpeedSpike

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SpeedSpike

What is it? One for the Big Brother conspiracy theorists, the SpeedSpike uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and can be linked to monitor a motorist’s entire journey. There are currently 1,000 of the digital snoopers being assessed on the streets of Hampshire. This camera works in a similar way to average speed cameras – measuring speed over a certain distance, rather than at a single point in time like Gatsos.
Where are they? Look out for these in Hampshire, particularly around the village of Hursley.

Mobile camera

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Mobile camera: image credit

What is it? The old-school hand-held or tripod-mounted cameras that pop up at the side of a road. Using laser or radar technology, these cameras are still one of the hardest to spot while you’re on the move. Look out for vans parked at the side of the road accompanied by men in hi-vis jackets trying to keep a distinctly low profile.
Where are they? Expect these to pop up in lay-bys anywhere around the country. However, cops will usually pick high-value roads, so the answer is simply ‘don’t speed’!

HADECS 3

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HADECS3: image credit

What is it? Introduced by the Highways Agency, the HADECS cameras – short for Highway Agency Digital Enforcement Camera System 3 – were intended to help improve traffic flow and motorway capacity, but they seem to be increasingly employed as average speed cameras. The anonymous grey paintjob makes them difficult to spot – sparking accusations of profit over safety for these cameras. They are mounted either on poles or in overhead gantries. These speed cameras don’t use film, with data being sent directly to a remote location for processing.
Where are they? These have been identified on the M25 in the Kent section, with more popping up on the M3 in Hampshire and Surrey, while the North gets them on the M1 in Derbyshire and Yorkshire. The M6 around Birmingham is also covered.

Vector

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Vector: image credit

What is it? ? Living on the UK’s highways since 2014, these smart cameras work using ANPR. The multi-talented devices are not only used to catch speeding drivers, but also contraventions involving bus lanes, level crossings, red lights, tolls, congestion zones, parking, yellow box incursions and access control. This camera doesn’t use film, so there’s no limit to the amount of violations they can record and process.
Where are they? You’ll find them popping up in Kent but expect that to spread if successful. The small, hard-to-spot devices can be located on traffic lights, street lamps, poles, bridges and gantries.

SpeedCurb

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SpeedCurb: image credit

What is it: These cameras can often be found keeping a watchful eye on traffic lights as well as speeding offences. The cameras are similar in appearance to Gatsos and also use a rear-facing camera to record the offence. However, unlike its counterpart, the SpeedCurb is not triggered by radar, but uses sensors embedded in the road surface. The SpeedCurb does not use film and digitally transfers records to a remote processing centre.
Where are they? These devices are common across the entire UK.

Peek

What is it? Similar in appearance and operation to the Gatso, the Peek uses radar to measure the vehicle’s speed as it passes by – recording it with a rear-facing camera.
Where are they? Counties currently using Peek Traffic cameras include Berkshire, Greater London and Leicestershire.

DS2 cameras

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DS2 camera strips

What is it? These devices are semi-permanent systems that are hooked up to strips either laid on the road surface or embedded within it. The system can cover two lanes and traffic going in both directions. The cameras might be monitored by roadside police who’ll stop drivers at the scene and issue an on-the-spot fine, or left unattended to record offences to be processed at a later date. They’re incredibly hard to spot, but the strips are sometimes marked by short grey poles at the side of the road.
Where are they? Expect to find them where you live!

DVLA cameras

What are they? With the demise of the road tax disc, the DVLA has upped the number of cameras it has operating to spot vehicles that haven’t paid excise duty. These can be permanent or operated from roadside vehicles.
Where are they? All across the UK

What happens when you get a speeding ticket?

If you’re caught on speed camera – whether you’re driving down a residential street or speeding on the motorway –there can be a lot of confusion about what to do.

When it comes to your next steps to take, there are three possible outcomes. You’ll either be offered a speed awareness course, be issued a speeding ticket, or – in the most dangerous circ*mstances – you’ll be sent to court, where you’ll receive a fine, points on your licence or a driving ban.

We understand that when you’re in a rush, it can be stressful. Especially if you’re fighting through traffic to get to the airport or catch a train. The best way to avoid all of this? Prepare forthings in advance so that you’re not feeling rushed. For instance, booking airport parking and an overnight hotel in advance of your trip. And most importantly…stick to the speed limits!

FAQs

What is a speed camera flash?

A speed camera flash is a visual indication that a vehicle’s speed has been captured by a speed camera. It is not a guarantee that a speeding ticket will be issued, but it is a warning that the vehicle’s speed has been recorded.

How do I know if I have been flashed by a speed camera?

A speed camera flash will typically be a bright flash of light, similar to that of a camera flash. However, not all speed cameras use a flash. Some cameras may use infrared technology to capture a vehicle’s speed without emitting a visible flash.

What happens if I get flashed by a speed camera?

If you get flashed by a speed camera, it means your vehicle’s speed has been recorded. The authorities will review the footage and determine if a speeding ticket will be issued.

How long do I have to wait for a speeding ticket after being flashed by a speed camera?

The time frame for receiving a speeding ticket can vary depending on the location and the specific camera that captured your speed. Typically, you can expect to receive a ticket within a few weeks after being flashed.

Can a speed camera flash be mistaken for a camera flash?

Yes, a speed camera flash can be mistaken for a camera flash. Some speed cameras use a bright flash to capture a vehicle’s speed, similar to that of a camera flash.

Can a speed camera flash be mistaken for a speed trap?

No, a speed camera flash is not a speed trap. A speed trap is when a law enforcement officer uses a radar or laser device to measure a vehicle’s speed, while a speed camera flash is a visual indication that a vehicle’s speed has been captured by a speed camera.

Can I contest a speeding ticket issued from a speed camera flash?

Yes, you can contest a speeding ticket issued from a speed camera flash. You will typically need to provide evidence that the speed camera was not functioning correctly or that there were extenuating circ*mstances that led to your vehicle’s speed being recorded above the posted limit.

Are there different types of speed cameras?

Yes, there are different types of speed cameras. Some use radar or laser technology to measure a vehicle’s speed, while others use cameras to capture images of a vehicle’s license plate and the driver’s face.

Can I be ticketed for speeding on a motorway or A-road?

Yes, you can be ticketed for speeding on a motorway or A-road. Speed limits are posted on these roads, and if you exceed the posted limit, you may be issued a ticket.

Are there any warning signs indicating the presence of a speed camera?

Yes, there are typically warning signs indicating the presence of a speed camera. These signs may be posted before or after the camera location and may include the words “speed camera ahead” or a symbol indicating the presence of a camera.

Will I get a speeding ticket... what happens after the motorway or A-road flash (2024)

FAQs

How to prove you weren't speeding? ›

You will need to present evidence in order to raise reasonable doubt that you were actually speeding. A judge will be most impressed with evidence other than your own memories of the event. If you have photographs or witnesses, then use them.

Do variable speed cameras flash twice? ›

The GATSOs are as other speed cameras of this type rely on either radar, induction loop or combination of both. Typically these flash once as a "test", twice as you pass through the camera above the set limit.

What is the red flash on a speed camera? ›

Speed Cameras with Red Flashes: These cameras use a flash of red light to capture an image of a vehicle that is speeding. The red flash is often used as a warning sign to alert the driver that they've been caught speeding.

How long does it take to get a photo radar ticket in the mail in Arizona? ›

In Arizona, the time it takes to receive a photo radar ticket in the mail can vary. Generally, recipients can expect to receive their ticket within 7 to 14 days after the violation occurs. However, it may take longer depending on several factors, including: The processing time of the issuing agency.

What is the best defense for a speeding ticket? ›

Common defenses that could help you fight the charges include:
  • Necessity. If you had to speed to avoid a serious accident, you may be able to argue that you had no choice but to speed. ...
  • No posted speed limit. ...
  • Not speeding. ...
  • Radar gun inaccuracy. ...
  • Speedometer calibration. ...
  • GPS. ...
  • Not the person driving.

What is the most common excuse for speeding? ›

Top Successful Speeding Ticket Excuses

These are the most common excuses respondents gave when successfully avoiding a speeding ticket, according to a survey by CarInsurance.com. 26% claim they didn't realize they were speeding. 21% say they are late for work. 25% tell police there is a medical emergency.

Why was I flashed on the motorway? ›

If you get flashed by a speed camera, it means your vehicle's speed has been recorded. The authorities will review the footage and determine if a speeding ticket will be issued.

How do I know if I've been flashed? ›

Unlike what some people think, not all speed cameras flash. However, this doesn't mean that the camera has run out of film, as they are digital so don't require this. The one true way that you can tell if you've been caught by a speed camera, is when you receive a notice letter through the post.

What is the variable speed limit on the motorway? ›

The national speed limit on the motorway is usually 70 mph. Smart motorways usually set variable speed limits at 60 mph, 50 mph, or 40 mph. They communicate this temporary speed limit on the gantries above the road. These gantries will also let you know when the variable speed limit ends.

Do you always see a speed camera flash? ›

Not all speed cameras will flash when they take an image of your car and some speed cameras will track your vehicle over many miles to work out its average speed.

What do two flashes on a speed camera mean? ›

You always get double flashed. It takes two pictures, one when you cross the first of the lines and another when you cross the last of the lines, if you haven't slowed down between the two, that's when they fine you... if they can be bothered.

Do speed cameras flash when taking a photo? ›

Speed and red light cameras

If a vehicle is detected exceeding the speed limit or running a red light, the camera and flash are activated to take a photo and a fine is issued.

Should I pay a photo radar ticket in Arizona? ›

If you have received a radar ticket in Arizona, you can choose to pay the fine or fight it. You may decide to ignore the notice of violation, especially if you received it through the mail. In many jurisdictions, the citation must be served to be legally enforceable.

How do you beat a photo radar ticket in Arizona? ›

Options After Receiving A Photo Enforcement Ticket
  1. Wait And Don't Respond To The Ticket. ...
  2. Hire An Attorney. ...
  3. Take Defensive Driving School. ...
  4. Mail Something To The Court Saying You Weren't The Driver. ...
  5. Request A Service Hearing. ...
  6. Request A Civil Traffic Hearing. ...
  7. Pay The Ticket.

Should I tell a cop how fast I was going? ›

Keep your answers brief.

If asked, “Do you know why I stopped you?” say “No.” If asked, “Do you know how fast you were going?” say “Yes.” Answering “No” will to imply to the officer that you are being negligent by not being aware of your speed/ the speed limit.

Why do police ask why you were speeding? ›

They're trying to see how the driver answers

The questions are less about gathering information and more about seeing how the driver answers in that moment. The officer may not care what the answer is. They want to see how the driver provides that answer.

How to get a speeding ticket dismissed in Illinois? ›

An order for court supervision can lead to the dismissal of a speeding ticket in Illinois. Basically, offenders plead guilty but do not get a conviction for their offense. Offenders receiving court supervision may pay fines and attend traffic school for a period specified by the court.

Does California have ticket forgiveness? ›

Parking ticket forgiveness, also known as parking citation dismissal or amnesty, is a program offered by the state of California that allows individuals to have their parking tickets dismissed or reduced under certain circ*mstances.

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