Uncontrolled Speed: Inside the UK Police's Technique and Equipment

Introduction

In the United Kingdom, the use of speed cameras is a common method for enforcing traffic laws. However, there is a common misconception about the equipment found in standard police cars. So, do normal police cars have speed cameras? Let's explore the reality of traffic policing in the UK.

Speed Cameras in the UK

Contrary to popular belief, normal police cars in the UK do not have speed cameras installed. Speed cameras, either fixed or mobile, are found in specific locations and typically in specialized vehicles. This is because speed cameras require a fixed or known movement to function accurately. Any form of movement can lead to inaccurate speed readings, making it impossible for a moving police car to carry and use a speed camera effectively.

The Role of Dashcams and Time/Distance Meters

Despite the misconception, standard police cars do come equipped with several pieces of technology that can assist them in detecting speeding vehicles. For instance, many traffic police cars and motorcycles are now fitted with dashcams. These devices record the speed at which the vehicle is traveling, along with a time and distance meter that provides supporting video evidence. This setup is crucial for gathering evidence when pursuing or monitoring suspicious driving behavior.

In addition, some police cars may have a time/distance device. This device, while not a traditional speed camera, serves a similar purpose by measuring the speed of a vehicle over a fixed distance. Once the device is calibrated, an officer can observe a vehicle, determine if it is exceeding the speed limit, trigger the device at a fixed point, and record the speed based on time and distance calculations. Nevertheless, this system is complex and difficult to use without proper training, as it requires a pass/fail exam to be authorized in its use.

Specialist Cars for Roads Policing

For roads policing officers, specialized cars are often equipped with more advanced technology. These cars may carry time/distance devices or more sophisticated systems. For example, a system might use Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology, which can link to a database and provide even more detailed monitoring of vehicle movements and speeds.

Moreover, some road safety innovations are being developed and adopted by police forces. One such innovation is the use of ANPR technology in conjunction with other surveillance tools. While not all police cars have these advanced systems, the introduction of such technology is improving the efficiency and accuracy of traffic enforcement.

Conclusion

In summary, while normal police cars in the UK do not have speed cameras themselves, they are equipped with other technologies designed to monitor and control speeding behavior. The use of dashcams, time/distance meters, and advanced systems like ANPR all play a crucial role in traffic policing. The complexity and training requirements for these systems ensure that they are used effectively and accurately in the enforcement of traffic laws.