Community Speedwatch 2024

A statement from Derbyshire Police has said that the subject of speeding is a hot topic which regularly comes up in correspondence with members of the public.

Taking to the Derbyshire Police website, it said that some people might believe that a little bit of speeding is okay and shouldn’t be targeted by the police, or might think that it is the most serious of crimes but added that officers sought to clarify the truth about the matter.

A representative of the force said: "Speeding might be an issue that you don’t consider serious, however it is one of the fatal four and the fact is, speeding does kill.

"In 2022, 303 people died on UK roads because drivers were travelling above the speed limit. All those people have family, friends and loved ones left behind due to drivers choosing to go above the limit.

"Volunteers who run Community Speed Watch Groups give up their time because they care about their communities and want to help protect residents in their area. Derbyshire communities shouldn’t have their lives put at risk due to speeding motorists. Many of these volunteers have jobs and busy lives outside of their volunteering but feel passionate about keeping local families safe."

This year, Community Speed Watch Groups have held 1,086 roadside checks across 88 locations in Derbyshire, recording 361,087 vehicles passing their check site, with 9,523 drivers receiving advisory letters.

The statement continued by explaining that policing was not just about tickets, adding that it was also about education and community involvement, and that speed sites encompass the two. It added that officers would step in and enforce the law when necessary, but stressed that more was wanted than just that, clarifying that the real aim is to thoroughly educate drivers on why speeding does matter, and why it is something officers would continue to target to keep Derbyshire safe.

It concluded: "We look forward to another year of Community Speed Watch and seeing the continued impact our volunteers make."