Implementation of average speed cameras cuts the number of crashes resulting in death or serious injury by more than a third, new analysis has found.

At least 12 average speed camera systems were installed last year alone; a key factor in increased uptake has been the reduction in installation costs

The research for the RAC Foundation by Road Safety Analysis found that on average the number of fatal and serious collisions decreased by 36% after average speed cameras were introduced. Personal injury collisions of all severities were down 16%.

The research has been undertaken as the number of average speed cameras in Britain continues to grow as the costs of installation fall. By the end of 2015 there were at least 50 stretches of road in Great Britain permanently covered by average speed cameras keeping a total length of 255 miles under observation. This is more than double the figure of 117 miles at the end of 2012.

Richard Owen, operations director at Road Safety Analysis, said: “The statistical results clearly show good collision reductions on the stretches of road where average speed cameras are used; often covering much longer distances than other enforcement systems.

“The findings and methodology used should be of significant interest to those considering the use of this technology, as well as those wishing to evaluate their own road safety schemes.”