Smash that speed camera!

The noble purpose of speed cameras is well known, that is to ensure motorists keep to the speed limit to make our roads a better, safer place to drive on.

Sure.

Everyone knows this. But is this really the effect that the deployment of mobile speed cameras have on us motorists in Singapore?

Right...

Before I get shot down for advocating something so left field, I have to agree that speed cameras are useful tools in reigning in the Speedy Gonzales' of the road.

It really is.

However, if one tells me that over-zealous deployment of mobile speed cameras help keep our roads ultra safe, this is where the line is drawn. At the same time, I will personally help admit this person into the Institute of Mental Health for a holiday.

According to statistics from the traffic police website, the total number of traffic accidents on the road rose from 6706 to 7499, an 800 increase! And 22% of this total number of accidents was caused by none other than…..speeding!

If mobile speed cameras are not stopping the number of speeding related accidents, then what are they there for?

Mobile speed cameras are there to instigate fear in us motorists.

How many times have you driven past an overhead bridge with your eyes darting and squinting in full alert, looking out for a man-in-white lurking around there?

You are a liar if you say zero.

How many times have you stomped on the brakes, just because you think you have seen a traffic police behind the bushes, only to have that poor sod behind you giving your car the "bums rush"?

This fear of being caught for speeding is very real, and very detrimental to road safety as it creates more distraction for the already distracted driver who deals with rush hour traffic, or the impatient dare devil taxi drivers from hell.

Just how safe can an overtaxed, and fearful driver be on our roads?

Furthermore, all the mobile speed camera does in an effort to contribute to road safety is to capture evidence of speeding vehicles. How does THAT help in promoting road safety when it is not preventing the motorist from speeding at that point in time? (ed. say it with me - Electronic Road Pricing)

Mobile speed cameras should never be public shy. Cameras should be painted in bright neon pink, complimented by flashing disco lights, and accompanied by a dancing traffic police officer for all to see.

I'm sure, this will enable motorists to take notice of them and make a conscious decision to slow down. Hiding behind trees and dustbins are nonsensical acts conjured up by monkeys in power suits without serving any real purpose.

Cream pies, anyone?

Credits: by Jarvis Seo