A DRIVER caught doing 130mph in a 50mph zone in Solihull is just one of thousands caught doing excess speed following the introduction of more speed cameras vans across the region.
The West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner, Simon Foster, invested £188,000 in four new mobile speed camera vans to double West Midlands Police’s fleet of vehicles to eight in total.
Data revealed by the PCC shows a 31 per cent increase in drivers being prosecuted for excess speeding in our region.
In January, 2,820 offences were recorded but, following the PCC’s investment, figures have dramatically risen to 3,199 in February and 3,696 in March, highlighting the ongoing issue of speeding in the West Midlands.
As well as the motorist on Collector Road in Solihull another was recorded going 84mph in a 40mph zone on Coundon Wedge Drive in Coventry.
Motorists caught exceeding the speed limit face serious consequences, including disqualification from driving, mandatory attendance on a speed awareness course, a criminal court conviction, including imprisonment and a £1,000 fine.
Mr Foster, who chairs the West Midlands Road Safety Strategic Group, emphasised the importance of the speed vans in improving road safety.
He said: “These figures highlight the vital role that our speed enforcement vans play in keeping our roads safe. The investment in additional vans demonstrates my unwavering commitment to reducing the number of people tragically and avoidably killed and seriously injured on our roads.
“Speeding is a major factor in road collisions, and we will continue to take robust action against those who put themselves and others at risk. We must do everything possible to make our roads safe.”
West Midlands Police traffic and safer travel Chief Inspector, Keeley Bevington, has urged drivers to adhere to speed limits.
She said: “These numbers are deeply concerning. Speeding is not just a minor infraction; it’s a dangerous and reckless act that can have devastating consequences.
“We are working tirelessly to enforce speed limits and hold offenders accountable. We urge all drivers to stick to the speed limit and prioritise the safety of themselves and others on the road.”
West Midlands Police will continue to deploy its speed enforcement vans across the region, focusing on known hot spots and responding to community concerns.
The force remains committed to working with partners to educate drivers and enforce the law, ultimately creating safer roads for everyone.
