Does the thought count when it comes to speeding?

Car buyers looking to move up to a sportier vehicle may want to pay extra attention to their speedometer, as a new survey has revealed that three in five motorists struggle to keep within the speed limits despite their best intentions.

As reported by the Daily Telegraph, an online poll of 3,000 drivers by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) found that nearly all (90%) drivers said they wanted to comply with the speed limit. However 60% said that in practice they found it difficult to keep to the limits despite their intention.

"Its good to know most people want to stay within the law when it comes to speeding, but too many find it challenging," said Neil Greig, IAM's director of policy and research. "The results suggest that people are aware of the limit and don't want to break it, but temptation and pressure from other traffic may push them to go faster."

According to the survey, the most common reason (57%) for disregarding the speed limit is that motorists simply disagree with the limits imposed on the roads. Meanwhile 7% said they "don't even think about" the limit when driving and just 17% say they are deterred from speeding by their conscience.

It also showed that motorways are the most likely place to speed, with 58% saying that's where they normally go over the limit.  This was followed by rural roads (20%) then towns (4%). With the upper penalty range for speeding set at £1,000 for non-motorways and up to £2,500 for motorway offences, selling a car may be a better option than continually running the risk for those with a proclivity for speed.

Shaun Eagelton, Surrey, Ford Mondeo

Mark Prior, Gloucester, AUDI A8 SPORT QUATTRO