Drivers issued warning over '10% rule' myth when being clocked for speeding

It's a rule drivers have long clung to when it comes to speeding, but it turns out following the infamous '10% rule' could land you in lot of trouble.

For years, UK drivers have believed they could get away with speeding down roads if they stayed within 10 percent + 2 over the limit.

This meant that motorists believed it was safe to drive at 24mph in a 20 zone or 35 mph in a 30 zone.

However, drivers have now been warned that this is not the case and that following the rule could land them with a fine and points on their licence.

Speaking out against the myth is Andrew Jervis, CEO of Click Mechanic (in a report published by BirminghamLive), who has told motorists that 'speed limits are not arbitrary figures' and should be followed at all times.

"Speeding costs lives and should never be encouraged, regardless of whether it can land you in trouble or not," he said.

"Speed limits are not arbitrary figures; they are carefully determined based on factors such as road design, traffic flow, and pedestrian activity."

He added: "The misconception of a 10 percent leeway could not only see drivers getting fines and/or points on their licence, but can cause fatal road traffic collisions.

Drivers have long believed they can get away with speeding if it was under the 10 percent rule. (Johnny Greig/Getty Images)

"As road users, we all have a responsibility to drive with consideration for others to ensure our highways are safe for all to use."

Where does the '10 percent' rule come from?

By now it's pretty obvious that you shouldn't be intentionally driving above the speed limit, but it you're wondering about the origins of the myth it would appear that it has been taken heavily out of context over the last few years.

According to Jervis, the 10 percent rule comes from guidance given by the Association of Chief Police Officers and is not meant to be used by regular motorists.

"The 10 percent rule is guidance for the police forces - and not a rule for members of the public," he explained.

The rule takes into account that speed guns used by officers aren't always 100 percent accurate.

Turns out the rule is actually based on guidance for police officers. (esp_imaging/Getty Images)

If you happen to be caught speeding on UK roads, the minimum penalty you could face is £100 fine and 3 penalty points added to your licence.

Drivers are also offered to go on a speed awareness course depending on the circumstances.

Repeat offenders could find themselves banned from driving should they accumulate 12 points on their licence within three years, while new drivers caught speeding could lose their licence with just six points.