The facts:

• Most speeding offences are dealt with through the fixed penalty procedure. Currently, this system doesn’t grade such driving offences according to their severity
• In November 2006, the Road Safety Act was passed. The Act enables a more flexible and graduated structure of penalty points. It expected that Government will consult on a graduated penalty system in 2007
• Proposed changes could result in more stringent penalties such as speeding in 20mph zones, and a more flexible approach in others, such as speeding on motorways

RAC position:

• RAC fully supports a more graduated system of fixed penalties for speeding offences
• RAC also believes further consideration should be given to drivers who grossly exceed the speed limit (i.e. 60mph in a 30mph zone)
• RAC calls for the circumstances of speeding offences, such as the time of day they occur, to be taken into account
• RAC believes that higher visibility traffic policing would have a positive effect. Trained police officers can apply judgement to situations where speed cameras cannot
• RAC supports the use of driver training as an alternative to fixed penalties in certain cases. RAC, through its driver training business, BSM, is the provider of courses for the National Driver Improvement Scheme in Scotland
• RAC works with many UK companies to reduce accidents and improve driver behaviours and attitudes to risk (particularly speed) as part of a proactive approach to this issue

For further information contact:

Telephone: 01603 681914
jon.day@aviva.co.uk

Updated July 2007

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