The AA has debunked a popular driving misconception that could result in a much higher risk of accidents and thousands of pounds in fines.
With many skills involved in driving, it is all too common to hear myths covering what can and cannot be done behind the wheel without the risk of being stopped by the police.
According to the AA, one of the most common misconceptions is that drivers are able to travel up to 10% over the speed limit, warning that it could come with consequences.
They advised: “In theory, driving even 1mph over the speed limit could land you in hot water. But you won’t get a ticket because speedometers aren’t always 100% accurate, so police allow for this.
“Plus, it’s not safe to drive with your eyes glued to the speedo. AA President Edmund King advises that it’s better to keep your eyes on the road.”
In order to avoid issuing fines to motorists who did not break the speed limit, most speed cameras have a 10% tolerance, with some areas also adding an extra 2mph as well.
As a result, drivers in some parts of the country are able to travel at 68mph in a 60mph zone without the risk of getting caught by a speed camera.
Nevertheless, the AA warned that drivers could still be stopped by police officers, with motorists breaking the law by increasing the speed limit as indicated on their vehicle’s speedometer.
As a result, the AA urged drivers to avoid the risk of speeding fines of up to £2,500 and licence points by using the tolerances as an occasional buffer rather than the limit.
They continued: “The National Police Chief’s Council recommends only giving a speeding ticket if you top the limit by 10% plus 2. So that would mean driving 35mph in a 30mph zone. However, this is up to individual police officers to decide, so there’s no guarantee they’ll let you off.
“The best way to make sure you don’t get caught by a police officer or speed camera is to drive carefully and try to stick to the limit.”
