MORE than 239,000 motorists were caught speeding in the West Midlands last year, despite the Government issuing the ‘stay at home’ message for much of 2020.
Drivers in the region collectively paid out a staggering £23million in fines for putting their foot down, according to a Freedom of Information Act.
West Midlands Police recorded motorists hitting speeds of up to 136mph in the region, suggesting drivers were taking advantage of empty roads during the nationwide lockdown.
But it was West Mercia Police which reported the highest number of speeding offences last year, with almost 76,000 drivers breaking the speed limit over the 12 months.
This followed by West Midlands Police which reported more than 74,000 offences.
Staffordshire Police was next with 55,731, followed by Warwickshire Police with 33,636.
Alex Kindred, car insurance expert at Confused.com who requested the data, said: “It’s worrying to think many people took advantage of quieter roads during lockdown to ramp up the speed.
“Speed limits are in place for a reason – to keep road users and pedestrians safe.
“If you’re caught speeding, you could be paying out up to 175 per cent of your weekly income – this could be up to £1,000 for some drivers, or £2,500 on a motorway.
“But it is confusing to work out the penalty with the rules changing depending on the severity of the offence.
“Stick to the limit and avoid a hefty fine.”
