Speed Cameras Drive Significant Drop in Serious Crashes on A38 in Cornwall

Average speed cameras have been credited with a “dramatic and sustained” reduction in fatal and serious collisions on one of Devon and Cornwall’s most hazardous roads.

Data collected over a ten-year period shows that the stretch of the A38 between Dobwalls and Bodmin saw a 45% fall in serious collisions following the introduction of the cameras. In the five years before their installation in 2020, there were 22 fatal or serious incidents. That number fell to 12 in the five years after the scheme was implemented.

The cameras were installed by National Highways in partnership with Devon & Cornwall Police, Cornwall Council, and the Vision Zero South West road safety partnership. Vision Zero South West aims to halve road deaths and serious injuries across the region by 2030 and has been a leader in deploying enforcement technology, including Jenoptik average speed schemes and the Acusensus ‘Heads Up’ AI cameras to detect distracted driving.

Adrian Leisk, Head of Road Safety at Devon & Cornwall Police and chair of the Vision Zero South West enforcement group, said:

“We know speed cameras are not universally popular, but the evidence shows they save lives. This section of the A38 was once particularly dangerous, and the sustained reduction in collisions demonstrates the positive impact these schemes have. Our average speed camera sites across Devon and Cornwall consistently see over 99% compliance, proving most drivers are choosing to travel safely.”

Despite the progress, Mr Leisk emphasized that there is more to be done:

“Each number in these statistics represents real people whose lives have been affected by tragedy. Our officers and emergency services witness the devastating consequences of collisions, which is why we are committed to continuing this work.”

Over the last three years, the region has seen a steady year-on-year decrease in fatalities and serious injuries on the roads. Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly, chairs Vision Zero South West and highlighted the partnership’s broader initiatives:

“Reducing harm on our roads involves more than just speed cameras. We fund innovative projects, including AI technology to detect seatbelt and mobile phone offences, support groundbreaking post-collision research through IMPACT, and run education programs to create safer future road users.”

Jack Mason, National Highways’ South West Road Safety Manager, added:

“By using collision data, risk analysis, and insights into driver behaviour, we can make roads safer for everyone. The A38 between Turfdown and Twelvewoods roundabouts carries around 23,600 journeys daily, and these measures are helping to reduce harm along this busy single-lane route. We’ve also introduced a new average speed camera scheme between Carkeel and Trerulefoot roundabouts this year and will continue monitoring safety and taking further action as required in partnership with Vision Zero South West.”