The truth about speed camera tolerances and how fast you can go over the limit

Many drivers may have heard that there is a tolerance on speed cameras, meaning they get let off if they are caught going a certain amount over the speed limit. But is this true? And if so, what are the rules?

It is true that most speed cameras have a tolerance level and those going certain speeds over the limit will be ignored and not get a ticket. The general rule is those going up to 10% +2mph over the speed limit will not normally get done for speeding.

This may not always be the case in all circumstances and motorists are reminded they should always stick to the speed limit. But there may be times when people are accidentally 1 or 2mph over and worrying they may have been caught by cameras.

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Experts say these rules are in place mainly to "accommodate different types of speed and traffic cameras" and for safety reasons as motorists could miss a hazard if constantly monitoring their speed.

It also seeks to avoid harshly punishing drivers going, say, 1mph over the limit, also saving time and resources for workers who have to process speeding fines. There's a general acceptance that someone doing 31mph is not purposely speeding.

The threshold rules mean, theoretically, someone could go through a speed camera on a 30mph road at up to 34mph and not get into trouble. At the other end of the scale, reckless drivers going way over the limit - more than 42mph in a 30mph - can expect to lose the opportunity to take an educational course and avoid points and a fine because their offending was so egregious.

Insurers Confused.com explained: "For example, if a driver’s speed goes over 30 mph, they might not get a fine unless they reach 35mph. This is mainly to accommodate different types of speed and traffic cameras.

"For example, speed cameras, speedometers and portable speed meters. The tolerances are also there to allow for driver safety. You could miss a hazard if you're constantly looking at your speedometer.

"Go safe says: 'The speed limit is the maximum speed – it’s not a target speed'."