High fuel prices and the cost of living crisis could be leading to a DECREASE in the number of drivers speeding on Britain’s roads, according to new stats uncovered by Select Car Leasing.
Figures from the DVLA show the number of motorists prosecuted for so-called ‘SP30’ - ‘exceeding statutory speed limit on a public road’ - offences was down more than 30 per cent last year compared with 2021.
The data, which came from a Freedom of Information (FOI) request submitted by Select, are specifically for speeding offences on a public road that isn't a motorway.
And the statistics also highlight that the number of speedsters was at its lowest level for four years - the most promising numbers in terms of road safety since 2018.
Here at Select, we reckon this could be down to drivers being increasingly wary of ever-present speed cameras while also slowing down to get as many miles out of a tank of fuel as possible, as prices at the pumps remain high.
Graham Conway, managing director of Select Car Leasing, said:
“These numbers seem to back up what a lot of our staff and customers are saying - people in general seem to be slowing down.
“While there have been a series of police and charity campaigns to raise awareness, they’ve never previously had the effect of reducing the number of speeding convictions to this extent.
“So there must be other factors at play, and the most obvious is the high cost of fuel still affecting British motorists.
“Last summer, the average cost of a full tank of diesel rose above £100 for the first time. Even though prices have come down slightly, motorists are still being hit hard at the pumps.
“However, there is one potential positive to come out of the situation - cutting down the number of reckless drivers wilfully exceeding the speed limit, therefore making our roads safer.”
The DVLA stats show that the number of SP30 convictions for 2022 were projected at 607,231, compared with 841,107 in 2021.
The most recent figure was also much lower than those for 2020 (731,020) and 2019, when 801,695 motorists were hit with SP30 prosecutions.
Contrary to popular belief, an SP30 offence is not only for exceeding the limit in a 30mph zone. It is simply the code used for a speeding offence committed on a public road that’s not a motorway.
This means you can be hit with an SP30 prosecution on any road where the limit is between 10mph and 60mph.
They account for around 80 per cent of all speeding tickets and incur a minimum fine of £100 and up to six points on your licence which stay there for four years.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, driving between 55 and 65mph is the best range to use fuel most efficiently.
Once you head above 70mph the difference is stark. Putting your foot down to 85mph uses around 40 per cent more than motoring along at 70mph.
Mr Conway said:
“As well as slowing down, there are some other simple things you can do to save pounds at the pumps.
“Remove excess weight from your boot and take off any roof racks or boxes, which create extra drag and make your vehicle much less efficient.
“In terms of cash, driving with an empty roof rack could cost you £300 more a year in petrol or diesel.”
Enjoyed this? Read our latest news:
- Skoda Kodiaq to the rescue!
- Wiesmann Project Thunderball is ‘world’s first electric luxury roadster’
- New Porsche Cayenne prepares for launch
- Lamborghini reveals love letter to the V12 engine
- Big test for electric Rolls-Royce Spectre
Where To Next?
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to our newsletter.
Looking for a great leasing deal? Check out our incredible range of special offers.
Read our latest reviews and find the right model for you.
Want to know more about leasing? Take a look at our comprehensive leasing guides.
Interested in everything motoring? Why not catch up on all the latest car leasing news.
