Call for technology use to stop repeat speeding offenders

A new campaign is calling on the Government to give courts the power to require speeding offenders to have technology fitted that prevents them from exceeding speed limits again.

The Stop Excessive Speeders campaign has been launched by Smart Start and Tendo Consulting, with the support of organisations including Road Safety GB and the RAC.

It backs the introduction of Intervening Intelligent Speed Assistance (IISA) to clamp down on the problem of repeat and excessive speeders.

IISA differs significantly from the Advisory ISA systems, which are now fitted as standard to most new cars, as it actively stops a vehicle from exceeding the speed limit, except in defined emergency override situations, which are logged so they can be reviewed.

While the Government’s Road Safety Strategy looks at the benefits of Advisory ISA in the context of vehicle safety technology, it makes no reference to the potential use of Intervening ISA as part of a targeted offender intervention programme for repeat or excessive speeders.

This is despite road casualty data from 2024 showing that exceeding the speed limit was a contributory factor in 20% of fatal collisions.

An event in Parliament on Wednesday (3 June), attended by Nicola Foster, chair of Road Safety GB, gave MPs the chance to learn about the technology.

A total of 29 MPs attended, including minister for local transport, Lilian Greenwood.

Nicola said: “Road Safety GB would support a trial of this technology, which is already proven in several US states and other countries, as an effective tool in changing speeding behaviours amongst those at high risk of reoffending.

“This technology could help progress towards achieving the stretching targets in the new Road Safety Strategy. It was a privilege to be able to speak to so many interested MPs”

A spokesperson for the Stop Excessive Speeders campaign said: “Excessive speed remains one of the leading causes of death on our roads, and the public clearly recognises the need for action. What our research shows is that people instinctively understand the link between tackling dangerous driving and saving lives.

“Intervening Intelligent Speed Assistance is a practical, proportionate solution, targeting repeat offenders while allowing the vast majority of drivers to go about their daily lives without disruption.”