Motorists have been warned they are at a higher risk of getting speeding tickets this weekend as millions of drivers hit the road for the bank holiday weekend.
Analysis of Department of Transport figures found a concerning trend of increased speeding behaviour during weekends and popular events across all road types, with drivers warned to follow the rules to avoid fines.
With police forces regularly conducting speed enforcement operations, drivers who fail to adhere to limits could find themselves facing fines, penalty points or even court appearances.
Under UK law, drivers can be fined a minimum of £100 if caught speeding, although this can increase to £2,500 if taken to court.
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Drivers can be fined £100 for speeding on UK roads PARecent data has recordeda significant weekend surge in speeding that puts both drivers and other road users at greater risk.
The figures showed a staggering 86 per cent of drivers exceeded the 20mph limit on Saturdays and Sundays, raising serious concerns about road safety in residential and pedestrian-heavy areas, particularly as the bank holiday gets underway.
Almost half of drivers' speed on motorways during weekends, with 48 per cent exceeding the 70mph limit on Saturdays and 49 per cent on Sundays.
This represents a significant increase from weekday figures, where only 43 per cent of motorists break the speed limit on motorways.
Speeding is more likely to peak during bank holidays and the weekend
PAThe data suggested that many drivers may be taking advantage of potentially quieter weekend roads to drive faster, putting themselves and others at risk.
Saturdays also see an increase to 46 per cent of drivers breaking the 30mph limit. Even on national speed limit single carriageways, where speeding is generally less common, the weekend effect is evident, with 11.5 per cent of drivers exceeding the limit compared to just nine per cent from Monday to Friday.
The consistent pattern across all road types has suggested a widespread change in driving behaviour once the working week ends, experts explained.
John Wilmot, CEO and founder of LeaseLoco.com, said: "While the majority of drivers respect speed limits on all types of road during the working week, it seems things do change at weekends.
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"Once the weekend rolls around, people are driving faster on every type of road as they rush to meet friends and relatives or pursue their leisure activities."
He added that the increase in fines comes as more drivers hit the roads at the weekend, with "people being less cautious at the weekends and hitting the accelerator because the roads might be quieter, so there are fewer traffic jams".
"Whatever the reasons behind it, these figures show evidence of a worrying trend. Accidents can happen on every day of the week, and drivers need to be vigilant at all times when they are out on the road," Wilmot continued. The warning is particularly relevant time as nearly 20 million vehicles get ready to hit the roads.
Shaun Jones, AA Patrol of the Year, said: "With the upcoming bank holiday, we anticipate a significant increase in traffic. Drivers should ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before setting off - check tyres, oil and coolant levels and make sure you have enough fuel or EV charge for your journey.
Speeding mainly occurred on 20mph roads
PA"We also encourage drivers taking longer journeys to take regular breaks to avoid fatigue and keep everyone refreshed.
"By following these tips, we can all contribute to a safer and more pleasant travel experience during the bank holiday weekend."
