Driving on a motorway this Christmas? Don’t fall for this speed camera myth

Millions of families will be battling through traffic to reach loved ones in time for festive celebrations. Millions more will travel to other locations in the UK to bring in the New Year in style. But with many set to use major motorways, including the M6, M1, M4, and M25 during their journeys, one motoring expert has warned them not to get caught out by an old tale that could leave them with a fine, points, and even a road ban.

The M62 between Leeds and Bradford also uses 'smart' cameras. Graham Conway, from leading vehicle leasing firm Select Car Leasing, explained that a surprisingly large number of drivers still believe smart motorway cameras are not in operation all of the time. ADVERTISEMENT

He said: "We hear this quite often, but it's something that could potentially ruin your Christmas if you get it wrong. "It appears that many motorists think the speed cameras on smart motorways are only in operation when the matrix signs on the gantries show a variable speed limit, say 50mph or 60mph." He emphasised that this is a misconception.

Gantry cameras can still snare speeders going above 70mph even when no variable limit is in place. Drivers caught over the national speed limit of 70mph can face a fine of up to GBP2,500 and points on their licence. If you accumulate 12 or more points within a three-year period, you could be disqualified.

Mr Conway said: "This simply is not right. "Online motoring forums are full of accounts from drivers who've been caught out in such a manner. ADVERTISEMENT

"And the penalties for breaking the speed limit on a motorway can be severe. "That's as well as being dangerous and putting lives at risk, of course." He further warned against the temptation to speed at this time of year when schedules are busy.

He said: "Good drivers are aware of the rules and abide by them, while also being conscious of the conditions on the day and what other road users are doing.

"But it's much better to get there slightly late and still in one piece than to not get there at all."