Article: published on 20 April 2026
Rise in speeding fines linked to more drivers breaking the limit, data suggests
- Published
Speeding fines and convictions have risen sharply across the UK in recent years, with new figures indicating that more motorists are exceeding limits and more of them are being caught.
Consumer expert Holly Hamilton looks at the possible reasons why.
So why has there been a rise in speeding fines and convictions?
According to data obtained by road safety charity IAM RoadSmart through a freedom of information request to the DVLA, the number of drivers receiving penalty points for speeding increased by 32% between 2022 and 2025, rising from 678,367 to 939,519.
The charity says the trend reflects a shift in driving behaviour. Speeding, particularly in 30mph zones, appears to have become more commonplace. In a recent survey, 61% of motorists admitted breaking the 30mph limit in the past year, with nearly half saying they had driven between 31 and 40mph in a 30mph area.
Improved enforcement technology including more sophisticated roadside cameras and digital checks has also contributed to the rise in detections.
Do Speed Limits Make Roads Safer?
Road safety experts say the answer is yes but only when limits are followed.
Government stopping‑distance data shows that even small increases in speed significantly lengthen the distance required to react and brake. The difference between 20mph and 30mph adds around 11 metres, roughly the length of three cars, to a vehicle's stopping distance.
Evidence on 20mph zones is mixed nationally, but some local studies show clear benefits. Transport for London reported that, over a 30‑year period, the introduction of 20mph limits contributed to a 34% reduction in people killed or seriously injured on borough roads.
When and Where Are Drivers Speeding Most?
Government data indicates that speeding is most common during night‑time hours, between 6pm and 5am, when roads are quieter and speeds tend to rise.
Vehicle‑tracking firm Quartix identified several hotspots earlier this year:
M77 Scotland: 52% of traffic exceeded the 70mph limit
B2087 East Sussex - Flimwell to Ticehurst: 41% of vehicles exceeded the posted limit
Warwickshire : Has the highest offence rate, one recorded offence for every 4.58 vehicles
Myth‑Busting: Common Speeding Misconceptions
"10% + 2mph rule"
The National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) does recommend enforcement at 10% + 2mph over the limit, but this is guidance, not law.
Police forces can issue penalties for any speed over the limit, even 1mph.
Do cameras only work in one direction?
No. Modern camera systems can detect vehicles travelling towards or away from the device.
Is it legal to speed while overtaking?
No. The Highway Code states that the speed limit is the absolute maximum, overtaking is not an exemption.
How to Report Dangerous Driving
Members of the public can report unsafe driving in several ways:
Emergency danger: Call 999 if a driver is posing an immediate risk.
Non‑emergency incidents: Call 101 or use your local police website.
Submit dashcam footage: Many forces accept video evidence through portals such as Op Snap or Nextbase.
Anonymous reporting: Contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
DVLA concerns: For issues related to eyesight or medical fitness to drive.
