Speed Cameras Linked to 45% Drop in Serious Collisions on A38

Speed cameras on one of Cornwall’s most criticised roads have been linked to a sharp and lasting fall in serious collisions, according to new long-term data.

Figures show the A38 between Dobwalls and Bodmin has seen a 45% reduction in fatal and serious collisions since an average speed camera scheme was installed in 2020.

What the data shows

In the five years before the cameras were introduced, between 2015 and 2019, there were 22 fatal or serious collisions on this stretch of road. In the five years after installation, from June 2020 to May 2025, that number fell to 12.

The scheme was installed by National Highways in collaboration with partners from the Vision Zero South West road safety partnership, including Devon & Cornwall Police and Cornwall Council.

Vision Zero South West aims to halve the number of people killed or seriously injured on the region’s roads by 2030.

Police response

Adrian Leisk, Head of Road Safety at Devon & Cornwall Police and chair of the Vision Zero South West enforcement group, said the figures showed a “dramatic and sustained” reduction in collisions.

Adrian said that while speed cameras may not be popular with everyone, the data demonstrates that they save lives. He also said average speed camera schemes across Devon and Cornwall see more than 99% compliance, suggesting most road users are driving or riding safely and respectfully.

He added that behind every statistic are people whose lives have been changed by tragedy and trauma, and that officers and emergency service partners see the consequences of road traffic collisions first-hand.

Wider picture across Devon and Cornwall

Over the past three years, Devon and Cornwall has seen a year-on-year fall in the number of people killed or seriously injured on the roads. Stats-19 data shows:

• 790 people killed or seriously injured in 2022

• 754 in 2023

• 677 in 2024

Alison Hernandez, Police & Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly and chair of the Vision Zero South West partnership, said she was encouraged by the impact schemes like this are having across the region.

Alison said the partnership’s work goes beyond speed cameras, including the use of AI technology to tackle seatbelt and mobile phone offences, support for IMPACT research into post-collision care, and education work with young people.

National Highways view

Jack Mason, National Highways’ South West Road Safety Manager, said the organisation uses collision data, risk assessments and insights into driver behaviour to guide safety work.

Jack said National Highways was pleased to see a reduction in incidents between the Turfdown and Twelvewoods roundabouts, noting the A38 sees an average of 23,600 journeys a day. He also confirmed an average speed camera scheme has been introduced this year between the Carkeel and Trerulefoot roundabouts, with ongoing monitoring planned.

Cornwall Council reaction

Dan Rogerson, Cornwall Council cabinet member for transport, said speed cameras often attract criticism, but the figures show that when they are used in the right locations, they save lives.

The data adds weight to the argument that targeted enforcement on high-risk roads can make a measurable difference to road safety across Cornwall.

Speed camera myths explained

 

The press release also addressed some common questions and misconceptions around speed cameras used across Devon and Cornwall.

Why do police enforce speeding?

Speed is described as a major factor in fatal and serious road collisions. Travelling too fast reduces reaction time and increases the risk of serious or fatal injury in a collision.

Why are cameras placed where they are?

Enforcement sites are selected using collision data, intelligence and feedback from local communities. This can include concerns raised by residents, councillors or Community Speedwatch teams.

Where does the money from speeding fines go?

Money from speeding fines goes directly to central government, not to local police or councils. Where drivers are offered a speed awareness course instead, some surplus costs are returned to the Vision Zero South West partnership and used for road safety work.

Can you block a speed camera van?

Standing in front of a speed camera van to block its view is classed as obstructing police in the course of their duties, which is an offence.

Do speed cameras have to be operated by police officers?

No. The chief constable can designate trained police staff to operate speed detection equipment.

Should speed limits be higher due to modern cars?

While vehicle technology has improved, collisions are still largely caused by driver error. Reaction times have not changed, regardless of how modern a car is.

Why do speed camera vans have CCTV cameras?

CCTV cameras provide a 360-degree view around the van and are used to protect police staff and officers while the vehicle is in operation.

Do the cameras only work in one direction?

No. The technology can detect the speed of vehicles travelling towards or away from the camera.

How far away can a camera detect speeding?

Speed camera vans can detect offences from distances of up to around 1,000 metres.

Are camera vans hidden or placed behind bushes?

No. Vans cannot be hidden, as an obstructed view would prevent the camera from detecting speed. Cameras are sometimes placed near bends, with police questioning why drivers would speed on sections of road with limited visibility.