Mobile speed cameras – how do they work and can you expect to be warned about them?

As the name suggests, mobile speed cameras are exactly that – mobile. They are used to enforce speed limits across the UK and are generally a road vehicle fitted with speed camera equipment.

Mobile speed cameras come in a number of shapes and sizes and the types used will vary from country to country. There are now 15 different kinds used in the UK alone. Some of the types of mobile speed cameras are:
Radar gun
Laser gun
DS2
Mini Gatso
Unmarked/marked police cars

Typically, depending on the type of mobile speed camera, the range will be about two miles on a straight bit of road – they cannot work round bends or over brows of hills.

Although it’s rumoured that mobile speed cameras need to warn you that they are operating, it is not a legal requirement. Sometimes signs indicate the presence of speed cameras, but no warning needs to be given.

With a diameter as small as 10cm, the laser beam emitted by a mobile speed camera can target you as long as it can see your vehicle. Meaning that only a small sighting of part of your vehicle is needed to gain a reading.

Typically, mobile speed cameras in a van work when they are parked up, but it’s still possible to catch speeding motorists when the van is moving.

If you’re driving on the opposite side of the road to a mobile speed camera, you won’t be exempt from being targeted. As long as the laser beam is aimed at the vehicle, it will be able to relay the driver’s exact speed.