RAC hit by storm over ‘speed cam dodge’ tips for drivers

‘Don’t speed, don’t kill’

THE RAC has been forced to withdraw advice for motorists on how to avoid speed cameras after a backlash from cyclists.

The breakdown recovery firm was taken to task over a section on its website entitled: ‘Speed cameras – tips and facts so you don’t get caught out.’

Before it was hurriedly removed yesterday morning, it described speed cameras as the ‘scourge of many motorists’ driving existence’.

It offered advice on how to find out where speed cameras are located, and what equipment to buy to detect them.

Drivers were told the ‘traditional way to avoid getting caught by a speed camera was to use a detector’.

But it said the devices – which Labour tried to ban more than a decade ago – were being superseded by sat-nav systems and smartphones which include speed camera alerts.

The advice was met by a storm of criticism on Twitter.

Cycling campaigner Danny Williams wrote: ‘Speeding kills people. Why is @TheRAC_UK advising people how to buy speed camera detection kits, not ramming home the message don’t speed, don’t kill...?’

Another user tweeted: ‘Do you know where I can buy an in-store security camera detection device? It will be a weight off my mind when I’m out shoplifting.’

In a response posted on Twitter yesterday the RAC said: ‘We appreciate everyone’s feedback. The content has been removed. Thank you.’

A spokesman added: ‘We apologise for the tone of an article on speed cameras on our website which was at odds with our principles.

The RAC campaigns on issues including for greater investment to tackle pothole-ridden roads which are a danger to cyclists and bikers.’