GONE IN A FLASH

Groups hit out at drop in vital tech as road deaths rise, Data shows speeding is factor in 1 in 4 fatal crashes

- NORMAN SILVESTER

ONE in four speed cameras on Scottish roads has been axed despite a rise in road deaths, the Daily Record can reveal.

Now road safety campaigners have demanded answers over the reduction, claiming it sends the wrong message to drivers over road safety.

Data released by Police Scotland under Freedom of Information show 120 "safety cameras" are currently "nonoperational".

Last year, there were 493 road safety cameras in operation but that is now down to 372.

Yesterday, three leading motoring organisations said the cameras were vital to reduce deaths and accidents on the roads.

Luca Straker, campaigns manager at road safety charity Brake, said: "Every day, five people die on UK roads and many more have serious, life-changing injuries.

"Speed is one of the biggest killers on our roads. It's a factor in one in four fatal crashes.

"At Brake we see first hand the devastating impact of road deaths and injuries through our work supporting road victims including those across Scotland.

"Safety cameras can be an efficient, cost-effective way to catch speeding drivers.

"But in the first instance, we would strongly urge every driver to adhere to the speed limits every time they are on the road." Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA, said: "Cameras that capture speed and jumping red lights are an effective tool in the arsenal for Police Scotland.