Drivers on West Midlands motorways can be fined even when driving below the usual 70mph speed limit. Although 70mph is the national motorway limit, smart motorways frequently impose temporary lower speed limits that motorists must obey.
Variable speed cameras monitor these temporary limits on stretches of motorway such as the M6, particularly between junctions 7 and 8 near Great Barr and between the M54 slip road near Wolverhampton and junction 10 for Walsall. These cameras enforce reduced speed limits during congestion, roadworks, or hazardous conditions.
Unlike advisory speeds, these temporary limits are legally binding. For example, drivers could be fined for driving at 45mph if the limit is set to 40mph during conditions requiring slower traffic flow. However, some drivers have been wrongly fined due to camera malfunctions in recent years.
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The RAC has explained that variable speed cameras operate similarly to average speed cameras but are typically active only when conditions warrant a reduced limit, such as during bad weather or traffic incidents. The applicable speed limit is clearly displayed on overhead gantries along the smart motorway.
Motorists should remain vigilant and adhere strictly to the temporary speed limits to avoid fines and ensure safety on West Midlands motorways.