Since the introduction of safety cameras on Britain’s roads in 1992, the Gatsometer speed camera, is the most commonly used camera on UK roads.
In 2001, all safety and speed cameras were painted from grey to bright yellow, to ensure visibility on the roadside. A misconception for many drivers is, if they are caught by a grey speed camera then it isn’t valid. This is in fact, incorrect, if you are caught speeding, the offense counts despite the colour of the camera.
The minimum fine for speeding is £100, and 3 penalty points on your license. Speeding is an offence whatever the reason, therefore the best way to avoid a speeding fine, is by driving the correct speed limit at all times.
How do Gatso speed cameras work?
Radar technology is used in order to measure the speed a vehicle is travelling, this will then trigger the camera into action. If a motorist is driving above the road speed limit set, two photos are taken. The Gatso camera is able to use a powerful flash to show the rear of a vehicle, its registration plate, along with the white painted calibration lines on the road surface.
Different vehicles have different speed limits. For example, cars, caravans and HGV’s have different speed limits, therefore it is important that cameras are able to differentiate between vehicle types. Gatso speed cameras have the technology to detect each vehicle that goes past.