Hundreds snared in Cambs as part of Europe-wide speeding crackdown

More than 300 traffic offence reports for speeding were issued last week across Cambridgeshire during a Europe-wide crackdown on speeding.

Officers from the Cambridgeshire Roads Policing Unit issued a total of 318 reports as part of a European-wide speeding campaign last week.

Traffic officers were out on patrol enforcing speed limits across the county using laser speed devices and unmarked police cars.

Traffic offence reports have replaced speeding tickets. A report is compiled by an officer at the roadside and then sent to a central ticketing office.

The office than contacts the offender by post to outline options for paying the fine or an alternative course of action.

Inspector Mark Rogers said: “Speeding is well known for being one of the ‘fatal four’ offences which has a proven link to fatal and serious road traffic incidents, along with the use of mobile phones while driving, not wearing a seatbelt and driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

“The traffic department enforces speed limits all year round but last week saw a targeted campaign which took place right across Europe.

“There were 28,000 deaths on European roads in 2012 and it is estimated there were 250,000 serious injuries as a result of road traffic collisions.

“The good news is that road traffic fatalities in the UK decreased by 12 per cent in 2012 – if all motorists abided by the speed limits, the roads would be safer for everyone.

“Our message is clear, speeding kills. If you are caught speeding, expect to be dealt with robustly with a fine and points on your driving licence.”