Many drivers believe that if a traffic light is green, they are free to proceed without risk of enforcement. However, across the UK, an increasing number of motorists are being caught out by speed on green cameras, and receiving fines, penalty points, or court summons as a result.
At MAJ Law, we regularly advise clients who are shocked to discover they have been prosecuted for speeding through a green light. In this blog, we explain how speed on green cameras work, why they are used, and what you should do if you are caught.
What Is a Speed on Green Camera?
A speed on green camera is a traffic enforcement camera installed at traffic-light-controlled junctions. Unlike standard red-light cameras, these systems have dual enforcement powers and can detect:
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Speeding through a junction (even on green)
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Failing to stop at a red light
This means that having a green light does not protect you from a speeding offence. These cameras are commonly installed at high-risk junctions where accidents are frequent, particularly where drivers accelerate to beat changing lights.
👉 Related reading:
How to Avoid Convictions in Speeding Cases: A Guide to Your Legal Rights
How Do Speed on Green Cameras Work?
Dual Enforcement Technology
Speed on green cameras are integrated directly with traffic signal systems and monitor vehicles for two separate offences:
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Exceeding the posted speed limit
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Crossing the stop line once the signal turns red
In some cases, drivers may commit both offences during the same incident, potentially leading to multiple penalties.
How Your Speed Is Detected
These cameras use advanced technology such as:
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Inductive loop sensors embedded in the road surface, or
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Radar-based speed detection systems
The system calculates a vehicle’s speed as it passes through the junction - regardless of whether the light is green, amber, or red.
Evidence and Image Capture
If a vehicle triggers the system, the camera records:
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Two images (usually one second apart)
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The vehicle’s speed
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Time and date of the offence
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The precise junction location
This evidence is then reviewed by enforcement authorities before a Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) is issued.
👉 Learn more here:
What Is A Notice of Intended Prosecution?
Not Just Red Lights
Traditional red-light cameras only activate if a driver crosses the stop line after the signal turns red.
Speed on green cameras go further - they enforce speed limits on green lights, targeting drivers who accelerate aggressively as the lights change.
Why Are Speed on Green Cameras Used?
Road safety partnerships, including the Merseyside Road Safety Partnership, have confirmed that these cameras are designed to:
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Reduce collisions at busy junctions
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Discourage risky acceleration towards changing lights
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Improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists
Junctions are statistically among the most dangerous parts of the road network, and excessive speed dramatically increases collision severity.
Key Things Drivers Need to Know
There May Be No Advance Warning
Unlike fixed speed cameras, speed on green cameras are not always clearly signposted. Drivers should assume enforcement may be present at major or accident-prone junctions.
You Could Receive Two Separate Penalties
Speeding and failing to comply with traffic signals are separate offences under UK law. In some cases, a single incident can result in:
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A speeding offence, and
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A red-light offence
This may mean two fines, additional penalty points, or court proceedings.
A Green Light Does Not Override the Speed Limit
Even when the light is green, drivers must still comply with the posted speed limit. Accelerating to “make it through” can still lead to prosecution.
What Penalties Can You Face?
Depending on the circumstances, penalties may include:
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A fixed penalty notice
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3–6 penalty points (or more in serious cases)
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A speed awareness course
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A court appearance
For drivers who already have points, this could lead to a totting-up ban.
👉 You may wish to read:
What is a Totting Up Disqualification and How Does It Work?
Can You Challenge a Speed on Green Camera Offence?
Yes. Many drivers don’t realise this.
At MAJ Law, our motoring defence solicitors assess whether:
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The camera was properly approved and calibrated
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The evidence meets legal standards
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Road signage and markings were compliant
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Correct procedures were followed by enforcement authorities
Early advice is essential. Responding incorrectly to a NIP or accepting a penalty too quickly can limit your options.
👉 Related article:
How to Contest your Speeding Ticket
Speak to MAJ Law – Specialist Motoring Defence Solicitors
If you have been caught by a speed on green camera, received a Notice of Intended Prosecution, or are facing points or disqualification, expert advice can make all the difference.
📞 Contact MAJ Law today for specialist motoring defence advice and clear guidance on your next steps.
Acting early could help protect your licence.
