Figures obtained by short-term car insurance firm GoShorty show that speeding offences rose by 385% in Cleveland, rising from 14,049 in 2023 to 68,134 in 2024.
Speeding tickets were also up 38% in Cambridgeshire (38,712 versus 53,333), 15% in Hertfordshire (56,180 versus 64,648), 13% in Suffolk (42,227 versus 47,770), and 10% in Merseyside (68,187 versus 75,187) and Derbyshire (52,215 versus 57,250).
However, not all areas followed the same rising trend. Sussex and Lincolnshire saw notable decreases, with Sussex dropping from 71,421 in 2023 to 45,464 in 2024 – a 36% reduction. Similarly, Lincolnshire recorded a 32% decrease in speeding offences.
The consequences of speeding can vary. A typical fine starts at £100 and three points on a driver’s licence, but more serious offences can lead to fines of up to £2,500 and a driving ban. For new drivers within their first two years, just six penalty points can result in their licence being taken away. Speeding convictions can also lead to an increase in car insurance costs.
Phil Evans, managing director at GoShorty, said: “Speeding isn’t just a risk to safety – it’s also a costly mistake that can lead to fines, penalty points, and increased insurance premiums.
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“With some regions – particularly Cleveland – seeing drastic rises in offences, it’s clear that more awareness and caution is needed on the roads. Drivers should always ensure they remain within speed limits. Unless stated otherwise, all single and dual carriageways with streetlights have a 30mph limit in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and a 20mph limit in Wales – according to the Highway Code. Local councils can set their own limits in certain spots, such as 20mph limits in areas near schools – these limits will always be clearly signed.”
