Speed awareness courses slightly reduce the likelihood of re-offending, according to new research by Kwik Fit.
A study of more than 2,000 British adults found that more than half of all people caught speeding (54%) go on to reoffend. That number fell to just four in 10 (40%) for those who went on a speed awareness course.
Six in 10 (58%) of those who received a talking-to by the police for breaking the limit went on to speed again, while 55% of those who received three points and a fine were caught reoffending. Of those who received six penalty points and a fine for their offence, 90% went on to be caught speeding again.
Kwik Fit believes more education is needed for motorists, as 44% have been caught speeding, while a quarter (24%) have committed multiple speeding offences. However the research found that many drivers think a speed awareness course would have less impact on their behaviour than other factors.
Just a quarter (24%) of drivers said going on a speed awareness course would have a large impact on their speeding, while four in 10 (39%) said the same of penalty points, and 43% said a limited-time driving ban would have an effect. Almost half of respondents (49%) said the biggest impact on their speeding would be involvement in an accident where speed was a factor.
Roger Griggs, communications director at Kwik Fit, said: “During Road Safety Week it is vital that we all focus on the ways we can improve safety for all road users.
“One of the biggest dangers on our roads is excessive speed, and the findings of our research indicates that speed awareness courses have a greater impact on drivers’ behaviour than many perceive. Of course, while any measure which reduces the number of drivers repeatedly speeding is hugely welcome, we must focus on educating drivers not to speed in the first place – drivers should not need to be caught to be given a wake up call.”
