Experts are warning drivers to stop relying on sat navs for speed limits as it could see motorists hit with hefty fines if caught.
Motorists have been warned that relying on sat navs to inform them of correct speed limits on the roads could cause more harm than good as they may not always be accurate.
Many sat nav devices display local speed limits on the main screens to help drivers avoid fines, but experts have flagged their concern that the data in the navigation system could be incorrect.
As new speed limits roll out across the UK, including more 20mph zones, devices may not accurately show the changes which could lead to drivers unknowingly breaking speeding laws.
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Sat navs need updating to reflect new UK speed limits
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The minimum penalty for speeding is a £100 fine and three penalty points added to a driving licence.
However, this fee could increase if the driver is taken to court and found guilty. In this case, they could be forced to pay up to a maximum of £1,000 for speeding or £2,500 if they were driving on a motorway.
Jake Smith, director of Absolute Reg, said: “With so many local authorities looking to introduce new, lower speed limits in their local area to reduce accidents, it is more important than ever for motorists to be aware of road signs.
“Checking your sat nav for the speed limit can be helpful on unknown roads or when you can’t spot a road sign, but drivers must be aware of the risks.”
Smith added that an over-reliance on navigation systems can lead to a whole host of issues for drivers.
Being caught out by not paying attention to updated speed limits could cost drivers more than they think with hefty fines in place to ensure motorists pay attention while behind the wheel.
Smith commented: “It is especially important for new drivers, who may not be used to looking out for new speed limit signs on the roads.
“Before setting off on your journey, make sure your navigation system doesn't have any outstanding updates. This can ensure the most up to date information. But, make sure to keep an eye out for speed limit signs on the roads to avoid driving dangerously.”
Data from the Department for Transport in 2022 found that 50 per cent of car drivers exceeded the speed limit on 30mph roads compared to 45 per cent on motorways and 11 per cent on national speed limit single carriageway roads.
According to car financing company Zuto, 18 to 24-year-olds are the most likely to use their sat navs with 23 per cent stating they use technology every time they drive.
Notably, drivers aged between 55 and 64 are the least reliant on sat navs, with 20.4 per cent stating they never use one.
Newcastle was flagged as the least dependent city, with just 18.6 per cent of drivers requiring technology to get around.
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A national speed limit sign with a speed camera's symbol underneathPAIn 2017, the DVSA announced a new requirement for drivers to practice following directions from a sat nav and testing different manoeuvres as the UK became more reliant on them.