Thousands of UK Drivers Could See Speeding Fines Cancelled Following Camera System Discovery
Motorists who have received speeding penalties on certain A-roads and motorways since 2019 may be eligible to have their fines overturned, following the identification of a significant technical anomaly within the national enforcement system.
Technical Glitch Between Cameras and Speed Signs
National Highways has confirmed that a flaw has been detected in how its Highways Agency Digital Enforcement and Compliance System (HADECS) cameras interact with variable speed limit signs on a limited number of routes. The issue has resulted in a slight, intermittent delay between the cameras and the electronic signage.
This timing discrepancy has led to some drivers being incorrectly flagged as speeding immediately after the displayed limit had changed, potentially causing wrongful enforcement action against compliant motorists.
Scale of the Issue and Ongoing Investigation
Since 2021, the agency has identified approximately 2,650 total erroneous activations attributed to this anomaly on the impacted roads. This figure represents fewer than 0.1% of all activations during that period, equating to fewer than two incorrect detections per day on average.
It is important to note that not all camera activations result in an enforced penalty, meaning the actual number of drivers affected by wrongful fines is likely to be lower than the activation count. National Highways is continuing its investigations, extending the review period back to 2019 when the camera upgrade programme began, to ensure all potentially impacted cases are identified.
Government Launches Independent Review
In response to the discovery, the Department for Transport (DfT) has commissioned a full independent investigation to determine how the technical fault occurred and to implement measures preventing future issues.
Tracey Westall OBE, a Non-Executive Director at the DfT, has been appointed as the lead reviewer for this inquiry. She will be supported by a secretariat provided by the department, with additional legal, analytical, and technical advice supplied as necessary.
Timeline and Process for Resolution
The review team is mandated to provide weekly progress updates to the DfT, with a mid-point report delivered directly to the Secretary of State for Transport. The investigation is expected to take at least 18 weeks to complete, culminating in a final report that will assess the facts and provide recommendations.
This development highlights the critical importance of accurate and reliable technology in traffic enforcement, ensuring that motorists are only penalised when genuinely exceeding speed limits.
