New speed cameras have been introduced in the UK that can catch you eating, drinking and using your phone whilst driving.

One of the main new features is their LED infrared technology that can tell when other offences are being committed behind the wheel - even in the dark.

And that includes drivers who aren't wearing a seatbelt or are using their phone, eating, drinking or smoking.

The new cameras, being tried out by police in Devon and Cornwall, record high-definition images that could also be used to provide evidence a driver is committing a Fatal Four offence or even failing to concentrate while behind the wheel.

For example, if someone is eating, drinking, smoking or otherwise distracted while driving, these things could be used as evidence a driver is distracted, even though these things are not crimes in themselves.

In the case there is a collision or other incident, someone who was distracted while behind the wheel could end up being charged with driving without due care and attention, reports DevonLive.

If the Devon and Cornwall Speed Camera Partnership endorses the new system they could soon be rolled out across the country.

How do average speed cameras work?

The multiple cameras are set at separate locations along a stretch of road at a minimum 200 metres apart and are synchronised to record the exact time that each car passes and use number plate reading technology.


That means only keeping to the speed limit while passing the cameras will not trick the system because the network will know that if you’ve got to the next camera too soon you must been speeding.

Do average speed cameras work at night?

Yes. They are fitted with infra red sensors to ensure they work night and day, and in all weathers.

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Can the cameras run out of film?

No. Unlike the early speed cameras, all average speed camera information is digital and is transmitted to computer networks.

Can the cameras catch motorbikes?

Sometimes. Motorbikes only have number plates on the back but there are some speed cameras that face the rear of vehicles. And in cases of extreme speeding, there have been examples of the images alone – without a numberplate – being used to identify a biker and prosecute.

If a driver passes more than two average speed cameras in a sequence while over the speed limit, will they get more than one fine?

This is unlikely. But speeding up a motorway and being caught by different sets of cameras will be treated as separate offences.

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If you are less than 10 per cent above the speed limit, will you get a ticket?

The Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) most recent guidance to forces, from 2013, is that fixed penalty notices should only be handed out when a vehicle is travelling at 10 per cent over the limit plus two miles per hour. So to get fined in a 50 zone, you have to be caught travelling 57mph and in a 70 zone you have to be doing 79mph.

However, this is just guidance and some police forces nationwide have indicated that drivers can expect less leeway, as cameras become more accurate.

As far as the law is concerned, a driver can receive a ticket as soon as they have exceeded the limit, even if it is only by 1mph.