Speed camera letter

[manek]

quote:
In response to Di Miles' assertion that Sussex needs more speed cameras, I feel it is time to debunk the myth that speed cameras automatically save lives. There are plenty of examples where this is not the case.

Of course, excess speed is a factor in many accidents -- though according to government statistics, it is the prime cause in only 4% of accidents, the main cause being lack of concentration. Speed cameras cannot help with that. Better or even regular driver training might -- say, a re-test every ten years.

No, the big issue is camera placement. Speed cameras are proven to improve safety at accident blackspots, residential areas and near schools, yet many are sited on open roads where the national speed limit applies and there are no obvious safety reasons for their location. The reason for this is too often revenue generation, as many police chiefs have admitted.

So before we issue blanket demands for more cameras, resulting in yet greater burdens on the wallets of already heavily-taxed motorists, we should not see them as a universal panacea but insist they be sited where a safety case can explicitly be made rather than being simply cash cows.

Thought you might like to see my letter which the Sussex Express (local rag) published this week.

[mondeoman]

Be interesting to see if it generates any "letters" in reply.

[markqelise]

I may be wrong but when speed cameras where introduced the government guidlines stated that they should NOT be used just to generate revenue, only be placed at accident blackspots and not be hidden behind trees and bends etc.
What are the government doing about the abuse - Sod all.

[Jason F]

quote:
What are the government doing about the abuse - Sod all.

Actually, rubbing their hands in glee.. lots of extra cash generated for the Govt coffers.

[markqelise]

Exactly