How often do you spot a driver going way over the speed limit? According to the RAC’s latest Report on Motoring, the answer is: almost all the time. 81% of drivers say they regularly see others excessively speeding. This is not just on fast roads like motorways, but even in built-up areas with 30mph or 20mph limits. It’s a worrying trend, and one with deadly consequences.
The risks of speeding are very real
Government figures for 2023 show that “exceeding the speed limit” was a factor in 21% of all fatal crashes – that’s 304 lives lost because someone was driving too fast. Think about that. Over one in five fatal collisions could have been avoided with safer speeds.
The concern grows even greater when you realise where much of this speeding is happening: on 20mph and 30mph roads. These are the streets where people walk their dogs, ride bikes, and take their kids to school. Vulnerable road users are at the highest risk here.
RAC’s data shows 50% of drivers admit to breaking the 20mph limit, from 46% just a year ago. Back in 2018, that number was 36%. So, what’s happening?
Are speed limits treated like targets?
Interestingly, 72% of drivers say they aim to drive as close to the limit as possible. But what happens when that mindset slips into “just a little over”? The stats tell us: more people are speeding, more often.
- 58% of drivers say they speed on motorways.
- 47% admit to breaking the limit on 60mph roads.
- 42% speed in 30mph zones – up from 40% the year before.
And it’s not just a few rogue drivers. More than half (55%) believe there’s now a general culture that says breaking the speed limit is “acceptable”. Only 23% disagree with that idea.
What can be done?
So how do we turn this around? The RAC asked drivers what they think would help.
Here’s what they said:
- 39% support more average-speed cameras.
- 36% favour radar signs that display your speed.
- 31% want clearer road signs.
- 30% like the idea of sat-navs or car systems warning them when they’re speeding.
Only 26% think more mobile speed cameras would help, and even fewer (21%) want tougher penalties.
What happens if you’re caught speeding?
If you’re caught speeding in the UK, the consequences can be serious – especially if you’re a new driver. According to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA):
- The minimum fine is £100, and you’ll get 3 points on your licence.
- If you get 12 points in 3 years, you could be disqualified.
- New drivers can lose their licence if they get 6 points in the first 2 years.
Speed cameras will trigger a Notice of Intended Prosecution and a Section 172 notice, which you must respond to. If you don’t, you could be summoned to court.
Sometimes, depending on the offence and your driving history, you may be offered a speed awareness course instead of points – but that’s up to the police and only if you haven’t done one in the past three years.
If you go to court and are found guilty, the fine could be higher – up to £1,000, or £2,500 on a motorway – and you could face disqualification.
For more detailed guidance, you can check the DVSA’s official site here.
So, what’s the answer?
Speeding isn’t just a legal issue – it’s a safety one. Every time someone drives too fast, they put lives at risk. So here’s a simple question: Why are so many people still doing it?
We all have a role to play. Whether you’re learning to drive, just passed your test, or have been on the road for years – staying within the speed limit helps protect everyone.
At Pass in Days, we believe that safe driving starts with good training and strong habits. That’s why intensive driving courses that we organise in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Bristol, and Exeter don’t just focus on passing the test. Excellent, DVSA-approved instructors we work with help you build the confidence and awareness to drive responsibly for life.
Want to get started? Just give us a call on 07413 250 300, fill out our contact form, or drop us a message on Facebook!
