Nearly 70,000 drivers have been caught speeding while traveling under 40mph in the West Midlands over recent months, according to new data. While many assume that reckless drivers hitting 90mph on motorways or residential streets are the most frequent offenders, statistics show that motorists only slightly exceeding the limit are caught most often.
Speeding Data Reveals Common Offences
Figures obtained by BirminghamLive revealed that drivers are caught speeding in the highest numbers when traveling between 30 and 40mph. Since last October, there have been just over 68,000 such cases. In most instances, these involve vehicles clocked going too fast on 30mph roads, but still under 40mph. This indicates that cars often only slightly exceed the limit. Lower-speed roads typically have more speed camera or police coverage for safety reasons.
30mph roads are frequently located in residential areas, near schools, or shops, so motorists should adhere to the speed limit and cannot complain if fined for exceeding it. This comes as main roads across Birmingham have been reduced to 30mph, with new speed cameras being installed at six locations.
The 10% +2 Rule and Its Limitations
Police sometimes operate a discretionary 10% +2 zone, which would theoretically allow drivers to do 35mph in a 30 zone without punishment. However, this is not guaranteed, and it is ultimately the police officer's decision. Motorists can be fined for doing under 35mph, and theoretically, they can be punished as soon as they are clocked at 31mph.
Data also showed that 28,000 drivers were caught doing between 40-49mph. Additionally, a recent report highlighted that more drivers get away with speeding in the West Midlands due to a lack of enforcement. In contrast, more speeding tickets were issued in Warwickshire in 2024 and 2025, despite the county having a much smaller population than the West Midlands.
