How fast above the speed limit can you drive before you risk a speeding fine
Drivers are often curious about the speed limit thresholds, especially if they are worrying about being hit with a fine. If you don't know the ins and outs of the rules of the road, you could risk your safety and the safety of others – not to mention facing penalty points, a fine or even a ban.
Just this week, Harry Potter star Emma Watson was banned from driving after being caught speeding at 38mph in a 30mph zone in Oxford last year, with that offence taking her to the 12-point threshold.
And the experts at BigWantsYourCar.com are now warning drivers not to rely on myths or guesswork when it comes to speed limits, with many people believing there to be a "buffer" over the limit.
A spokesperson for the car valuation company said: "We regularly speak with drivers who think there's a guaranteed buffer – but the truth is, as soon as you exceed the speed limit, you're technically breaking the law."
Speed cameras work using radar or road markings to monitor a vehicle's speed and capture evidence of any offence. While older cameras used film, most modern devices are fully digital and can even track your average speed over many miles.
The expert explained: "Not all cameras flash anymore. Some operate silently, and some mobile units are manually operated – so relying on a flash as a warning is a risky game.'
Digital systems record:
Vehicle speed
Time and location of the offence
Vehicle registration
Road speed limit
In some cases, they even capture a clear image of the driver and passenger.
What Speed Actually Triggers a Camera?
According to the professionals, contrary to common belief, there's no universal '10 per cent + 2mph' rule baked into law.
The spokesperson said: "The idea that you're safe doing 35mph in a 30 zone is one of the biggest myths we hear. Technically, you're liable for a fine the moment you go even 1mph over the limit.'
While the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) does recommend a '10 per cent plus 2' margin to allow for officer discretion, this is not a legal threshold and can vary depending on the enforcement area or the officer reviewing the case.
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Mobile Cameras vs Fixed Cameras
Fixed cameras typically have a set trigger speed, though the exact threshold is rarely published. Mobile cameras, on the other hand, are operated manually – and decisions to issue fines can depend on how far over the limit you are and the circumstances.
Mobile speed units are particularly unpredictable. They're often deployed in accident-prone zones, so officers tend to take a tougher stance.
With speeding fines ranging from fixed penalties to points on your licence and even court appearances, the best strategy is simple.
The BigWantsYourCar.com team added: "Don't gamble with the grey area. If you're even slightly over the limit, you're putting your licence, insurance, and safety at risk. No journey is worth that.'
According to the RAC, UK car speed limits are generally 30mph in urban areas, 60mph on main single-carriageway roads, and 70mph on dual carriageways and motorways.
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