More than 24,000 drivers were caught driving over 100mph between 2019-2023, according to recent police data.
Of the 45 police forces contacted in the BBC’s freedom of information (FOI) request, only 27 could provide data on the highest recorded speeds on UK roads. The figures include shocking examples of motorists reaching dangerously high speeds. In 2019, a driver in South Yorkshire was caught doing 164mph. The following year, another driver was clocked at 163mph on the M1 in North London. In 2023, a motorist in Greater Manchester was recorded travelling at 164mph on the M26. These drivers faced various penalties, including fines, driving bans and penalty points.
The proportion of drivers admitting to speeding has increased over the years. According to recent research from the RAC, 58% of drivers admitted to ‘frequently’ exceeding 70mph, up from 57% in 2023. Similarly, the percentage of drivers who admitted to speeding on 60mph roads rose from 45% in 2024 to 47% in 2025, while on 30mph roads, it increased from 40% to 42%.
Separate data from the Home Office has revealed that motoring offences have reached an all-time high, with 86% of offences recorded as speeding-related.
Speaking on the data, Ben Pepper, senior associate in the personal injury claims team at Bolt Burdon, said: “Through our work representing clients who have been victims of serious road traffic collisions, we see firsthand the devastating consequences of speeding. It is crucial that the Government, local authorities, and the police take more decisive action to combat the record levels of speeding on our roads and work toward ensuring safer driving for everyone.”
