New cameras could be set up to take pictures of the faces of speeding motorists.
Speed cameras currently only take pictures of the number plates of speeding cars.
But now a pilot scheme could be started where pictures would also be taken of drivers' faces.
Face the facts : The new speed camera
The move has been made as more and more defendants exploit a loophole in the law by claiming in court they were not the driver of the speeding car.
The project works by one camera catching the registration plate while a second camera takes a picture of the driver's face.
The images captured could also be useful in identifying people involved in other crimes.
If the scheme from the Essex Safety Camera Partnership is approved then ten sites are to be selected over the coming year to trial the scheme.
It is estimated all the measures would lead to an increase of prosecutions of about 7.7 per cent.
Another measure to beat the speeders is the introduction of an extra 20 speed cameras on Essex roads.
And instead of a fine and penalty points, they would be offered the choice of taking a rehabilitation course to warn them of the dangers of their actions.
Latest figures show there are currently 104 fixed cameras in Essex, including 20 catching drivers running red lights.
Other measures being proposed include introducing even more mobile cameras, reducing the tolerance of speed cameras by 1mph and buying an extra 13 cameras to catch motorists jumping red lights.
The scheme is being considered by the Department of Transport, which is due to make a decision at the end of the month.
Published Friday, January 24, 2003
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