The effects of speed cameras on a notorious road in Worcestershire
Drivers who use the A449 between Hartlebury and Ombersley have voiced their support for the improvements they have noticed since SPECS average speed cameras were installed on the road.
During the past three years in West Mercia, three people have been killed on the 50mph section of the A449 with a further four suffering serious injuries. Speeding or inappropriate speed was noted in the majority of incidents as a contributory factor. Therefore, the West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner’s Road Safety Fund decided to support the implementation of the Jenoptik average speed solution.
After local Worcestershire News journalist Cat Phillips tweeted about how she had noticed drivers’ behaviour had changed for the better since the installation, residents replied tweeting their similar experiences of safer driving.
“Huge difference. We pull out from the Hartlebury junction and it’s made it so much easier,” wrote one, while another commented that she had spotted “a few speed merchants but far fewer than previously.” Another resident noted how noise from the road was much better, with “far less noise from speedsters.” Other comments included how the cameras’ introduction had made a “massive difference and much welcomed,” and how things are “much better now”. There were no replies complaining about the new average speed scheme.
The Jenoptik average speed camera system influences driver behaviour so that the speed limit is adhered to throughout the whole section of the route by enforcing an average speed across a route 24 hours of the day.
West Mercia Police says ongoing evaluation will be taking place and will inform future decisions over how this technology can be used in parts of its area.
In today's fast moving world, safe journeys are more important than ever. But what is the clue to achieving this end? Smart mobility solutions including traffic cameras and image/data processing equipment can be one key element here. Speed cameras help harmonize traffic flow, reduce accidents and casualties caused by speeding and they also improve the air quality. Thats's the power of photonics.
