Funding For Speed Cameras Welcomed By Van Lease Drivers
Do we really think as a nation that safety cameras are a good governmental investment? Most of us at some time must have passed through one and seen the tell-tale flash in the rear view mirror. What follows on later is the familiar summons and inevitable penalty. But what do people really feel about these object that have become normality over the last 15 years? Motorist’s views at the moment are especially relevant with news of the government’s plans to slash funding.
An Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) study has found that 44 per cent of respondents were in favour of the proposals, with 30 per cent unsure and only 26 per cent opposed.
It was, however, found that a large majority of drivers approved of the cameras. This may be due to the response to automatically slow down that naturally happens when a motorist notices one of these. It must be said, however, that a large percentage of drivers immediately increase their speeds once they have passed the cameras.
Van leasing customers in the UK could be among motorists who are in support of the government’s decision to reduce safety camera funding. It isn’t clear why this happens, as figures obtained do not name van drivers as the worst offenders and most frequently penalised drivers on the road.
Of those participating in the survey, over 70% approved safety cameras according to the IAM.
“Rather than being purely hypocritical, it suggests drivers are seeing the lifesaving effects of cameras, but resent being caught out by them,” Kevin Delaney, IAM head of road safety, explains.
“The 11-year study shows that support has declined slightly over time, but that cameras have maintained a good level of approval overall among the motoring public.”
Elsewhere, figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show that the number of new van registrations continued to rise in July compared to the previous month.
