Speeding on UK roads has become a serious concern, with police forces across the country catching drivers reaching dangerous speeds in low-speed zones. In Cambridgeshire, a driver was recorded driving at 91mph in a 30mph zone, highlighting a worrying trend that puts pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users at significant risk. This incident is part of a broader pattern of reckless speeding behavior, as revealed by recent data from an RAC investigation.
Shocking Speeding Statistics Across the UK
The RAC investigation showed that nearly half of the police forces in the UK caught drivers speeding at over 90mph in 30mph zones. These figures, recorded over 20 months until August 2024, expose a significant safety risk on roads designed for slower traffic.
- Cambridgeshire Constabulary: 91mph (Joint 17th in the country)
- South Yorkshire Police: 122mph – The highest recorded speed in a 30mph zone
- Bedfordshire Police: 103mph
- Essex Police: 90mph
- Norfolk Constabulary: 89mph
Such extreme speeds on roads with lower limits, which are often near schools, residential areas, and high-pedestrian zones, present a severe threat to public safety.
The Dangers of Speeding: RAC and Police Speak Out
RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis emphasized the seriousness of the issue, calling these incidents “incredibly dangerous actions” that put law-abiding road users at risk. Speeding remains one of the leading causes of road fatalities, with 331 deaths in 2023 linked to drivers exceeding speed limits – the highest in a decade.
Chief Constable Jo Shiner, from the National Police Chiefs’ Council, added that such speeds are not accidental but deliberate decisions by drivers. She stressed that speed limits are set after careful consideration of road conditions and surrounding areas. Ignoring these limits is not just illegal but also reckless and selfish.
Public Attitude Toward Speeding
A survey conducted by the RAC found that more than half (55%) of drivers believe there is a general acceptance of speeding among UK motorists. Only 23% disagreed, indicating a dangerous shift in attitudes toward road safety.
Despite ongoing awareness campaigns, the perception of speeding as a minor offence persists. The Department for Transport (DfT) continues its efforts to address this through initiatives like the relaunched “Think!” campaign, which focuses on the dangers of speeding, particularly on rural roads.
Highest Recorded Speeds in 30mph Zones
Below is a breakdown of the top recorded speeds across UK police forces:
| Police Force | Recorded Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| South Yorkshire Police | 122 |
| Sussex Police | 113 |
| Greater Manchester Police | 112 |
| West Yorkshire Police | 112 |
| West Mercia Police | 106 |
| Lancashire Constabulary | 104 |
| Nottinghamshire Police | 103 |
| Bedfordshire Police | 103 |
| West Midlands Police | 100 |
| Cambridgeshire Constabulary | 91 |
Government Response and Future Actions
The UK government has already implemented strict penalties for speeding, including fines, license points, and driving bans for severe offences. However, these shocking figures have prompted calls for more stringent measures.
The forthcoming road safety strategy is expected to include targeted measures to reduce dangerous driving and prevent avoidable casualties. Education campaigns, increased enforcement, and innovative road safety technologies are likely to play a key role in this strategy.
The alarming speeds recorded in 30mph zones underline the urgent need for better enforcement, public awareness, and stricter penalties. Speeding is not just a breach of traffic laws but a potential cause of fatal accidents that can destroy lives. Ensuring safer roads requires cooperation from the public, police, and policymakers alike. Reducing speeding incidents will save lives and create safer, more responsible driving habits across the UK.
