Drivers on Midlands motorways are being caught out by temporary speed limits, with many facing fines and penalty points even when driving under 70mph. Motorists can be penalized for exceeding the limit by just 1 or 2mph, potentially as low as 71mph.
Speed Limit Confusion
Recent data from Thames Valley Police revealed that 53% of speeding offences over 70mph fell within the 70-79mph range. On motorways like the M6, speed limits are often reduced below 70mph during congestion or incidents, using variable speed limits on smart motorways. These temporary limits are mandatory, not advisory. For example, if the limit shows 40mph, drivers can be fined for going over 41mph.
Discretionary Threshold Myth
There is a widespread belief that police operate a discretionary threshold, meaning drivers won't be punished for slightly exceeding the limit. However, this is not always true. Officers have the discretion to fine motorists for being 1 or 2mph over the limit. While drivers may feel unfairly treated, they are technically speeding and have little grounds for complaint.
In the West Midlands, M6 drivers are most frequently caught between junctions 7 and 8 near Great Barr and between the M54 exit slip road near Wolverhampton and junction 10 for Walsall. Motorists are urged to pay attention to variable speed limits to avoid penalties.
