A survey of 3,000 UK drivers has revealed that a large majority believe common driving myths, with the most widely held false belief being that it is legal to drive over the speed limit by 10% plus 2mph. A total of 88% of respondents thought this was true, but it is false.
Technically, it is illegal to drive even 1mph over any speed limit and you can be prosecuted for doing so. However, speed enforcement guidance issued by the Association of Chief Police Officers recommends prosecuting drivers only when their speed exceeds the limit by 10% plus 2mph, because police speed guns are not always 100% accurate.
Other Common Myths
The survey, conducted by OOONO, also tested other beliefs. For example, 36% of respondents thought speed cameras must be clearly visible and signposted by law, with no signpost meaning no fine. This is false. Similarly, 16% believed braking just before a speed camera will stop you from getting a fine, which is also false.
Other false beliefs included the idea that a speeding ticket is only valid if received within 14 days of the offence (14% thought true), that you will only lose your licence if doing over 100mph (11% thought true), and that it is okay to speed in an emergency, such as when a partner is going into labour (8% thought true).
Legal Limits and Enforcement
The survey also found that 8% believed you can challenge a speeding ticket if you didn't realise you were speeding, 6% thought you won't get a fine if street lights aren't working, and 3% believed you cannot be fined for speeding on an empty road. All are false. However, 91% correctly knew it is illegal to exceed the speed limit when overtaking another vehicle.
Given that the minimum penalty for speeding is a £100 fine and 3 penalty points added to your licence, and is often a lot worse, sticking to the speed limit is key. The OOONO CO-DRIVER NO2 is a compact, no-screen device that provides audible and visual alerts when a speed camera or traffic hazard is detected ahead.
Device Features and Community Network
The device is designed to minimise driver distraction, using a simple beep and visual signal rather than requiring drivers to look at or operate a phone or touchscreen. It delivers alerts for multiple types of speed cameras, including fixed, mobile, average-speed and red-light cameras, as well as roadworks, temporary hazards, accidents and obstructions ahead.
OOONO operates a community-based traffic information network, with drivers able to report and confirm cameras and hazards using the device's button. Those reports contribute to warnings for other drivers in the area. Once set up, the device works automatically on every journey and connects wirelessly to a smartphone, working alongside Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
OOONO has sold more than four million devices in Germany, and the company is now building its UK driver community.
