In 2000, the Government set targets for 2010 to reduce the number of those killed and seriously injured (KSI’s) by 40%on our roads. Excess or inappropriate speed for the circumstances is just one factor affecting KSI’s. In order to reduce road collisions and casualties we are working to educate all drivers on the dangers of speed.

We are all pretty sure we know our speed limits, but did you know that the speed limit changes depending on the vehicle you are driving and the type of road you are on? For example, HGV’s (over 7.5 tonnes) can only travel at a maximum of 40mph on a single carriageway and for a van the maximum speed is 50mph on a single carriageway and 60mph on a dual carriageway. Not knowing the speed limit is not a defence in law!

An independent analysis to the 38 areas that were operating within the National Safety Camera programme over the four year period, from April 2000 - March 2004, showed that vehicle speeds were down & both casualties and deaths were down. There were positive cost benefits & the public supported the use of safety cameras for the targeted enforcement. Overall the report concluded that safety cameras have continued to reduce collisions, casualties and deaths. (The National Safety Camera Programme Four Year Evaluation Report, December 2005).

If you have received a ticket please see the caught speeding section of our website.

Dorset Police run the Driver Awareness Scheme for offenders who marginally exceed the speed limit. The scheme is an alternative to receiving three penalty points on a driving licence and covers a wide range of areas such as hazard perception and how to be a safer driver.. More information can be found at http://www.dorset.police.uk

Please follow the link below to view the General Road Safety in Dorset leaflet produced by DSCP.