Web site reveals speed camera locations

UK drivers can look forward to dodging speeding fines thanks to a full list of speed camera locations published on the Internet. The Association of British Drivers (ABD), which stands up for the rights of motorists, has a mission to publicise all 2,000 speed camera sites on its Web site. It invites car users to report new speed traps, and the £15 annual membership guarantees regular reports and maps of the country’s hot spots. Drivers can view a list of the speed cameras, divided into counties, with details of where and when the offensive equipment operates. A trawl through London threw up six camera sites, which could put an unlucky driver at least £240 out of pocket, and lose them their license into the bargain, according to the AA. The US Speedtrap Registry Web site, found even more, saying the A10 in Enfield, North London, alone had a total of 12 sets of cameras. Although the ABD stated it in no way condoned abuses of speed, it added : "(We) deplore the abuse of Gatsos and other devices. That is, where there are no safety reasons for their existence and where they are primarily sited to generate revenue and criminalise safe, responsible motorists." 262,000 British drivers faced fines or prosecution on speed camera evidence in 1996, according to today’s Times newspaper. This is an impressive jump from a mere 290 in 1992, the year speed cameras were introduced. Up to 85 per cent of cameras have to be left switched off because it costs over £8,000 a year to keep them in film. But the advent of digital versions will keep more running at a cheaper price, the article said. ®