Legal Questions and Answers by
Jonathan Stones of John Barkers
Question :-
My question concerns speed cameras. I have been told that the police cannot prosecute drivers if there are no markings on the road. Is that correct - or is it a myth?
Answer :-
It depends on the type of camera that is being used. Currently the most common type of roadside camera is known as a GATSO - don't ask me what the acronym stands for - and that system has the markings on the road surface.
I understand from the column's friends in the police that the camera gives a speed-reading and the road calibration markings are part of a secondary check. If the road markings are obliterated for some reason - for example road works - then the police would not be able to carry out that secondary check and would not be able to prosecute.
However, GATSO is just one of the systems being used around the country and not all of them require road markings. TRUEVELO is a more expensive system that is now being introduced in greater numbers - and that does not require the markings.
Bear in mind also that mobile police speed check equipment and speed guns, do not require road markings.
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