Dorset Police detail ‘extraordinary excuses’ from speeding drivers

Dorset Police has reported that individuals apprehended for speeding have offered various justifications, including concerns about a cold KFC meal, the need to dry a recently-cleaned bicycle, and requiring a toilet. The force’s No Excuse Team intercepted 2,000 drivers suspected of exceeding the speed limit during the period from July 24 to November 6. According to Sgt Gareth Thomas, some drivers presented “extraordinary excuses.” Sgt Thomas stated: “We want to remind motorists that there is no excuse whatsoever.” Sgt Thomas further commented: “Driving at excessive speed not only puts yourself in danger, but also endangers other road users and increases the risk of a collision occurring.” He added: “We all too often see many families left suffering after deaths and life-changing injuries on our roads.” Sgt Thomas concluded: “There is no legitimate reason to speed and increase your risk of seriously injuring or killing another innocent road user.” The police force indicated that among those stopped, one individual cited an urgent need for the toilet as the reason for speeding, while another explained they had recently washed their bike and sought to dry it “by driving a bit quicker.” Additionally, one driver claimed to be speeding due to low fuel and rushing to a petrol station, and another stated they were accelerating to prevent their KFC meal from becoming cold. Dorset Police also reported that during the 15-week timeframe, a double-decker bus was among the vehicles stopped, allegedly traveling at 43mph on a 30mph road with passengers on board. David Sidwick, the Police and Crime Commissioner, remarked that drivers who speed are “putting your own and others at risk of serious injury or worse.” He further stated: “Some of the speeds recorded in this update are shocking and I would urge all drivers to watch their speed and drive carefully.”