Cat and Fiddle camera makers withdraw casualty claims

The makers of average-speed cameras on the Cat and Fiddle run are withdrawing a casualty reduction claim after a complaint to the Advertising Standards Authority.

Vysionics ITS had claimed its speed cameras reduce deaths and serious injuries by “more than 70%” on average.

The Alliance of British Drivers said the claim was an exaggeration because it ignored chance variation in accident numbers.

Vysionics makes SPECS average-speed cameras, which can be either front or rear facing. Routes covered by rear facing ones include the A537 Cat and Fiddle run Macclesfield to Buxton in Derbyshire.

The ABD’s Malcolm Heymer said:  “Speed cameras are usually installed after two or three years of above average accident numbers. There is a very strong chance, therefore, that the numbers would drop again of their own accord anyway.

“When they do, the speed cameras undeservedly get the credit. This is the biggest cause of the exaggerated claims for speed cameras.”  

Vysionics refused to comment.

The ASA said the firm had agreed to amends its claims ‘without the need for a formal investigation’.