Noise Cameras
The environment is becoming more of a pressing issue in the UK and this is not solely based around plastic waste and greenhouse gases. Noise pollution is also high on the agenda to be dealt with.
This has seen new plans announced which will affect UK motorcyclists and motorists.
The UK Government has recently announced steps to trial a new ‘Noise Camera‘ across the nation which will spot drivers causing unacceptable levels of noise as they pass by.
Who will be targeted by the trial?
From information released by the UK Government, it would seem only a certain section of motorists or motorcyclists need to worry.
These include ‘boy racer‘ types who enjoy revving their engines up loudly, motorists whose exhausts or engines are damaged thus making lots of noise or bikers who take the silencers off their motorbikes. But what is the point of all this?
In simple terms, it is a way of the authorities trying to cut down on noise pollution in quieter residential areas.
It will see the new ‘Noise Cameras’ fitted to ANPR systems already in place across the country. If the new detectors pick up excessive vehicle noise, a photograph of the offending vehicle will be taken. This will then see a fine automatically posted out to the owner.
Many residents will welcome the move
Although this may seem a little draconian, many feel it is about time steps like this were taken. Indeed, official guidelines from the UK Government state that exhausts and silencers must not be altered to increase noise and also must be kept in good condition.
This has been allowed to slide somewhat in recent times but the new cameras may be about to redress the balance. The new system is set to be trialled at several different locations and if it proves successful, will see it rolled out to more.
What do current laws advise?
Within Europe, the current legal limit for noise is 74 decibels. If you create noise north of 90 decibels, then the authorities will officially record it as a nuisance.
There are some more detailed rules around excessive vehicle noise which include:
– The Police Reform Act of 2002 includes Section 59 where the Police can seize your car if they deem you causing distress or annoyance to the general public.
– Road Vehicles regs from 1986 state that you could be given a fine on the spot if you have fitted custom engine or exhaust products that produce excessive noise.
– if Police think loud music is distracting you when driving, they could prosecute you for careless driving. This could, in turn, see a £100 fine and 3 points added to your licence.
Cut down the noise and stay out of trouble
For most road users, this new technology will have no impact at all on their daily lives. If, however, you think you may fall into the categories of people it is targeting, then you need to beware.
If you are deemed to have caused noise pollution which the new cameras pick up, a fine could be winging its way to you in the post before too long!
