FOOLSSPEED CAMPAIGN URGES SCOTTISH DRIVERS TO REALISE LIFESTYLE BENEFITS OF NOT SPEEDING
'Foolsspeed', the Scottish anti-speeding campaign, launched its fourth consecutive ad on Monday 8th November 2004 and focuses on how people's attitudes and behaviour towards speeding impacts on their well-being and that of other drivers.
Current statistics show:
- 58% of cars exceeded the speed limit on 30 mph zones in 2003
- In 2002, 116,047 speeding offences in Scotland accounted for 34% of motor vehicle offences recorded by the police
- Drivers believe that most people drive at around 10mph above the speed limit
- Speeding drivers judge themselves to be very good drivers, have no/few driving offences are aged between 19-54 and predominantly male
- Speeding drivers can receive at least three points on their licence for each speeding offence. A driver can be disqualified for one serious offence.
The aim of the Foolsspeed campaign is to change the way we think about speeding in urban areas, challenge the beliefs we have in our driving ability and highlight the benefits of choosing to drive at speeds appropriate to conditions. It demonstrates the unnecessary strain drivers expose themselves to by ignoring the speed limits on Scottish roads and highlights the everyday benefits of choosing not to speed such as reduced stress levels and starting the day with a clear head.
Michael McDonnell, Director of Scottish Road Safety Campaign said: "Foolsspeed adopts a realistic approach to create awareness of speeding as an issue. Speed is a major factor in one out of every three road accidents and a contributory factor in most others. Hopefully in this ad, the target group will recognise themselves and their behaviour and adopt a much calmer driving style. This will lead to less impatience, less stress, and make them drive better and feel better."
The new 'Foolsspeed' campaign ad will be broadcast on TV, emphasising the increased pressure and stress that Scotland's drivers face by driving at inappropriate speeds.
