Gareth Thomas, a speed camera officer with seven years of experience, has debunked common myths about his job and revealed how some motorists can avoid getting caught. He explained how the cameras work and offered insights into driver behavior.
Do speed vans have to be visible at all times?
Gareth said: "Legally, we don't have to be visible. I could camouflage myself if I wanted to - but it's all about being fair, education and preventing an accident. Even if I parked my van and went for a walk somewhere, it would deter people speeding right away."
Can officers only catch motorists travelling in one direction?
Any car that passes a van is recorded on the officer's camera. So if you're exceeding the speed limit whether you're driving in the same or opposite direction to the van, you can expect a speeding ticket.
Are officers a revenue collector for the Government?
Gareth explained: "We're not here to get figures or to make money. We're just here to catch the people who are speeding. If I get a day where I don't get any drivers speeding, then I know I've done my job. If I've been working an eight hour shift, I just hope at least one person that day has escaped injury or a crash has been avoided."
Do officers enforce anything other than speeding?
Yes. Officers are there to make sure you are wearing a seatbelt and are not using your mobile phones behind the wheel. Anyone caught breaking these laws will be prosecuted.
Is it illegal to eat behind the wheel?
Gareth said: "It is endorsable. I had one lady in view once and she was looking in the mirror and putting lipstick on. She was riding on the cats eyes in the centre of the road and veering. I recommended that she was prosecuted for driving without due care and attention."
Is it illegal to flash your headlights to warn others about a speed van?
Under section 89 of the Police Act 1997 it is an offence to "wilfully obstruct a constable in the execution of his/her duty." However, Gareth says while it is an offence, it is very difficult to prove. He said: "It doesn't bother me that people flash to warn them of the speed van - I just want to educate people and the van to act as a speed deterrent."
What happens if I am caught speeding?
Gareth said: "An accredited course is far more likely to improve driver behaviour and consequently make our roads safer." Courses are available to drivers who respond quickly to the 'notices' and who were driving at no more than 10 per cent, plus 9 mph above the posted speed limit.
