Majority of Motorists Say Average Speed Cameras Work but less Than Half Always Stick to Speed Limits
A new survey reveals that nearly two-thirds (64%) of Irish motorists believe speed cameras are an effective deterrent to speeding, especially in accident-prone areas. The research, conducted by iReach Insights on behalf of Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC (Aviva), found that 46% of drivers consider average speed cameras to be somewhat effective, while 22% say they are very effective in encouraging safer driving.
However, 29% of respondents remain unconvinced — with 20% unsure of their impact, 4% believing they are not very effective, and 5% saying they are not effective at all. Just 3% of those surveyed had no opinion.
The Aviva survey found that:
- A higher percentage of men (25%) believe that speed cameras are very effective (women: 17%), and slightly higher amongst those at the younger age cohort of 18-24.
- Some 50% of those aged 25-34 believe they are somewhat effective, while 26% of the same age group are not sure they have any impact.
Impact of Speed Cameras
While 45% of motorists say they never exceed the speed limit, 43% admit to driving more cautiously when they spot a speed camera. However, the research also highlights some concerning behaviours. Nearly one in five drivers (17%) report feeling more stressed after passing a speed van.
More worryingly are the 28% of respondents who say that they flash their headlights to warn oncoming drivers when they pass a speed van, and 4% go as far as texting or calling friends or family nearby to alert them. In addition, 4% admit they are willing to “take a chance” by speeding, while 3% say they actively avoid areas where speed cameras are in place. Just 12% of respondents claim they make no changes to their driving behaviour at all.
- Motorists in the 45–54-year age cohort and those aged 55+ are the least likely to drive over the speed limit at 46% and 49%, respectively.
- The impact of a speed van sees 51% of 18–24-year-olds drive more cautiously. However, the same age cohort is more likely to flash oncoming drivers to warn them at 45%.
- Some 8% of those aged 25-34 years will actively avoid areas with speed cameras.
It’s encouraging to see that the majority of motorists recognise the role speed cameras play in promoting safer driving, particularly in accident blackspots. Interestingly, our research shows that younger drivers and men are more likely to view these cameras as very effective, suggesting a growing awareness of road safety among these groups. However, the research shows that a considerable number of drivers — especially those aged 25 to 34 are unsure about their impact, so there’s clearly more work to be done in raising awareness about how average speed cameras contribute to reducing accidents and saving lives.
Julie Frazer, Underwriting & Product Lead, Aviva said.
“However, the findings also highlight some concerning behaviours — such as flashing oncoming drivers or alerting others to the presence of speed vans — which can undermine the purpose of these safety measures. Motorists who text family members or friends while driving to warn them of the presence of a speed van are taking risks that could have grave consequences for themselves or other road users.
“The research also revealed notable differences in how drivers of various age groups respond to speed cameras. Older motorists (45–54 and 55+) are the least likely to exceed the speed limit, while younger drivers (18–24) are more likely to adjust their behaviour — both positively and negatively — when encountering speed enforcement. Over half (51%) of 18–24-year-olds say they drive more cautiously when they see a speed van, yet 45% admit to flashing oncoming drivers to warn them. Meanwhile, 8% of drivers aged 25–34 say they actively avoid areas with speed cameras. Speeding is a major contributor to fatalities and serious injury on our roads, underscoring the importance of targeted enforcement and public awareness campaigns in promoting safer driving behaviours across all age groups,” concluded Julie Frazer.