Motorists are being warned to dismantle or remove their safety camera detectors when driving abroad to avoid serious penalties. In some countries, in-car sat nav systems that show where safety cameras are located are also banned.
A survey of motoring clubs across Europe in 23 countries found that only two - the UK and Hungary - permit the use of both camera detectors and POI (points of interest) sat nav systems.
Thirteen countries, including Austria, France and Italy allow POI systems but not camera detection equipment. Camera detection equipment actively detects radar or laser signals from a safety camera or speed gun and alerts the driver to its presence.
Seven countries prohibit POI systems, including popular tourist destinations such as Ireland, Germany and Switzerland. The POI function is built into many sat nav units and shows the location of fixed safety cameras from information in the unit’s CD-ROM database, which can usually be updated. POI systems normally feature information about garages, car parks, shops and other facilities. In most modern units this information can be turned off. Punishment for using prohibited equipment varies widely from country to country. In Germany a fine of €75 is levied if the sat nav POI function is not switched off. In Switzerland and Ireland your sat nav could be confiscated. There have even been incidents when camera detectors have been literally ripped out by local police.
Do you ever get the feeling everyone is totally against the UK motorists?
Jackie Violet – Female First