(Updated February 6, 2024). Although many drivers have slowed their speed over the past few years, we currently see an increased use of long-range mobile speed cameras. Similarly, in some European countries like Denmark, there are plans to either adapt or increase the use of section controls. We give you an overview of the new measures here.
New mobile speed cameras are harder to spot
The police have already started using new mobile speed cameras that can measure a car's speed from 1200 meters. Previously, it was only possible at a distance of 400 meters. The compact camera is also far more discreet than, for example, a photo van. All in all, this means that this kind of speed control is incredibly difficult to spot from a distance. Therefore, a modern traffic alarm such as Drive One is the best way to be warned in time.
Drive One warns about new speed cameras, at no extra cost
Unfortunately, many older traffic alarms are not ready for long-range cameras, as they do not warn in time. Since Drive One is made to keep up with the times, we have upgraded the warnings so that you can now be warned already 1500 meters before a mobile speed camera. This gives you plenty of time to slow down, even if you meet one of the new speed cameras. This is of course completely subscription-free and only requires that you have a Drive One in the car, as well as our free app.
Section control - how does it work?
Section controls, also called average-speed controls, measure the average speed on a section with two control points. Your license plate is thus scanned at point A, and when you drive through point B, your average speed is measured throughout the section. When you drive past point A, a stopwatch starts, and it is thus the time that determines whether you receive a penalty or not.
Section controls help the traffic
Throughout Europe, section controls are a well-known way of regulating traffic, and Denmark has also adapted them. The first two sections are the Great Belt Bridge (Denmark’s largest bridge) and the Øresund Tunnel (connecting Denmark and Sweden). Both should have been completed during 2022, but the Great Belt Bridge control only started using the section control in late 2023. It is not certain exactly when the Øresund Tunnel will start using its section control. More section controls have also been planned in Denmark.
In countries like the Netherlands, Austria, parts of Germany and Great Britain, this type of control has been very successful, partly because it is more difficult to "cheat" as a driver, by slowing down temporarily. Drivers are, therefore, more respectful of section controls.
How does section control help traffic?
The system is particularly relevant on a stretch like a bridge or a tunnel, where an accident can quickly end very badly, as it is more difficult to avoid a broken-down car, or where the weather can also be of great importance.
Section controls are also a win-win in many ways, for yourself, other road users, and the environment, compared to regular speed cameras.
Many see it as fairer, as you are not just penalized for driving a bit too fast right where the control is, but instead, have to slow down over a longer distance. In other words: you can adjust your driving until the next point.
For the regular road user and the environment, section controls also have the advantage that the general speed is evened out. It is safer, as drivers follow the same speed, instead of accelerating gradually, and then slowing down. A steady speed is also better for the environment.
Drive One warns you in time
With Drive One, you know that you will receive warnings in time, no matter what type of speed camera you will meet. In our app, you can also follow your speed with the speedometer, so you know whether you comply with the speed limit.