I HAVE usually refrained from entering any debate regarding the use of speed cameras, for two reasons. First, because I find it difficult to remain objective when most opposition views usually bring to mind instances of the irresponsible actions of some drivers as witnessed by the law-abiding majority on many occasions. Secondly, the recurring theme of the revenue factor, as opposed to that of safety, often tends to indicate a political motive.
However, I wish to respond to Malcolm Wigglesworth’s letter of November 17 which I’m sure will have lots of support, but not mine, since I have never been able to accept most of the arguments against the use of speed cameras as presented by the motor
ing organisations
Their concern over responsible drivers is understable but it seems to me that they overlook or ignore the fact that there is a significant number of drivers who display an attitude of intimidation and aggression with total disregard of speed restriction signs
While I appreciate that it seems unfair to penalise the responsible driver exceeding the speed limits in conditions of reasonable safety, there seems to be a scarcity of practicable alternatives to the cameras as a way to try to enforce speed limits when bad weather combined with certain traffic conditions – lights, bends, undulations, junctions and schools – demand compliance.
Unless one accepts the argument of one pressure group “that drivers should not be subject to speed traps of any kind but should simply learn a 100-word Highway Code based on being aware and driving predictably”, problem solved then?
A couple of months back, a national newspaper contained a report headed “Speed cameras do not save as many lives as claimed”, based, I believe, on a university survey. But, as with your correspondent’s quote that “excessive speed is the cause of only 7.3 per cent of accidents” (I’m always wary of statistics) I wonder how many lives lost they represent?
However, whether or not the number and locations of speed cameras are to remain as at present, I do feel that there is a case for a review of the speed restrictions in certain areas with a view to a degree of relaxation. This, I feel, would at least deter any temptation on the part of the law-abiding motorist to increase speed – say along Scalby Road – for fear of being arrested for loitering.
Charles Braithwaite
Trinity Road
Scarborough
The full article contains 412 words and appears in Scarborough Evening News newspaper.
