Since smart motorways were trialled in 2006, billions of pounds in contracts have been announced to implement smart motorways across the country.
Rather than investing in widening motorways or building more roads to cope with increasing volumes of traffic, the scheme was hailed as a workable solution to manage the flow of vehicles; the positives being that journey times would decrease, pollution levels would go down and the motorways would be safer.
However, with the opening up of a hard shoulder at certain times, a number of fatalities have been uncovered and then reported by the press under a Freedom of Information request.
From a practitioner’s point of view, I am often asked to advise on drivers that have been caught speeding, so I have provided some FAQs below.
I have had a request to identify myself – do I have to do this?
Yes.
How long to they have to inform you about the matter?
Usually 14 days.
Does it matter if everyone else was speeding too?
No, in theory, if everyone was speeding, everyone could be charged. The statistics demonstrate that smart motorways catch hundreds of speeding drivers every week.
Can you tell me how the camera’s work?
On smart motorways, when speed restrictions are in place, the speed cameras are on. The systems can monitor traffic speed and accidents but the government has admitted that monitoring does not always occur. The system can adjust the speed limit accordingly by displaying variable speed limits on the overhead gantries. If there is no speed limit displayed on the gantries, then the cameras can be left on to monitor speed and the motorways can be monitored by staff.
Do I have to slow down even if the road is empty?
Yes. This is part of the controversy. Is this a smart move?
Do they switch speed cameras on automatically at different times?
Yes – in certain sections of the M25 for instance they are turned on and off at set times. Again, hence the controversy. Why would this be done if traffic is free flowing?
Can they clock you for speeding even if the speed is not being displayed?
Yes, if the speed limit is not displayed then the cameras can still be active.
I have had concerns about safety for some time. I have driven when the mandatory 40 or 50mph lights go on where traffic is light, and being a competent and responsible driver, I have had my nerves tested when am overtaken by a LGV (or HGVs) on both sides.
Having to slow down very quickly to enter the restricted speed zone, I argue (as others have commented before me) is dangerous and can risk injury or death if other drivers are not so competent, responsible and reactive.
As it has been reported that the motorways are not always monitored then this is an additional concern if a broken down vehicle in a lane has not been identified, as this is where there is a high chance of a collision.
With the fatality statistics now common knowledge, and the death toll unfortunately rising, hopefully the government will review its plans for smart motorways and what appears to be a flawed system.