Expect more car chases too we suspect as many who use fake plates would rather outrun the cops there than face 1000 pound fines and maybe jail and car confiscation. Never mind the cloned plate problem.
A bid to toughen laws over illegal car features which make them “invisible” to speed cameras has been launched by MPs.
Read the full article at Birminghammail
Summary of Illegal Car Feature Making Vehicles Invisible to Speed Cameras
Quick Overview
A new report highlights the alarming rise of “ghost plates”–illegal vehicle registration plates that render cars invisible to speed cameras. These plates, which appear normal to the naked eye, use reflective materials that interfere with automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) systems. In response to this growing issue, MPs are advocating for stricter penalties to deter reckless driving and improve road safety.
Key Points
- Definition of Ghost Plates: Ghost plates are modified number plates that cannot be read by speed cameras due to reflective coatings or alterations.
- Legislative Action: MP Sarah Coombes is leading a campaign to increase penalties for using ghost plates, proposing fines of up to £1,000 and six penalty points on driving licenses.
- Current Penalties: The existing penalty for using ghost plates is a £100 fine with no points or driving bans, which many argue is insufficient to deter illegal behavior.
- Concerns Over Road Safety: The use of ghost plates is linked to increased instances of speeding, running red lights, and other dangerous driving behaviors, raising public safety concerns.
- Public Awareness and Media Coverage: The issue has been underreported in mainstream media, but social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have highlighted the widespread knowledge and availability of ghost plates.
Detailed Breakdown
Definition and Functionality of Ghost Plates
Ghost plates are designed to look like regular vehicle registration plates but are treated with materials that prevent them from being captured by infrared cameras used by law enforcement. This makes it easy for reckless drivers to evade detection while violating traffic laws.
Legislative Response
In light of the growing concern over ghost plates, Sarah Coombes, MP for West Bromwich, has introduced the Vehicle Registration Offences Bill to Parliament. She argues that the current penalties are inadequate, allowing drivers to exploit ghost plates with minimal consequences. Coombes advocates for a significant increase in fines and penalties, stating, “The current fine of £100 is hardly a deterrent,” and suggests that a £1,000 fine plus potential license disqualification would be more effective.
Road Safety Implications
The rise of ghost plates poses serious risks to public safety, as drivers using these plates can engage in dangerous behaviors without fear of being caught. Coombes emphasizes that “those who want to drive around recklessly… are evading capture by using dodgy ghost number plates.” This has implications not only for traffic enforcement but also for broader public safety and crime prevention.
Public Awareness and Media Coverage
Despite the severity of the issue, it has received limited attention in traditional media outlets. However, social media has played a role in disseminating information about ghost plates, with users sharing how easily they can be obtained online for as little as £30. Coombes notes, “There has been little mainstream media coverage, but it is clear from TikTok and Instagram that they are widely known.”
Notable Quotes & Data
- “Right now, if someone has a ghost plate and they speed past a camera at 100 mph, the likelihood is that they will not be caught.” - Sarah Coombes
- “The current consequences of being caught with one are far too insignificant.” - Sarah Coombes
- “Those websites are full of disclaimers reassuring us that they are perfectly legal - as long as we do not use them on the roads.” - Sarah Coombes
Context & Implications
The increasing use of ghost plates reflects a broader challenge in traffic law enforcement and public safety. The proposed legislative changes could serve as a critical step in addressing this issue, potentially leading to safer roads and more accountable drivers. As MPs push for these reforms, the need for public awareness campaigns becomes evident to ensure that drivers understand the risks and penalties associated with using ghost plates.
In conclusion, the issue of ghost plates underscores the need for stricter regulations and enforcement measures to protect public safety on the roads. The proposed changes could significantly impact how traffic violations are addressed in the UK.