Crime novelist Lynda La Plante is facing a potential driving ban after accumulating three speeding tickets within a five-month period in a London 20mph zone. The 83-year-old author, known for creating the television series "Prime Suspect," is scheduled to appear in court next month to contest the charges.
Ms. La Plante was reportedly caught driving at 24mph, 26mph, and 27mph in a 20mph zone on Kingston Hill in south-west London. She has disputed the accuracy and clarity of the road signage, stating that cameras are placed too close to signs indicating the reduced speed limit, leaving insufficient time for drivers to adjust their speed. She has also cited difficulties in obtaining legal advice through the court system.
Her defense notes indicate that she wishes to dispute the offenses, citing the proximity of 20mph signs to previous 30mph zones, particularly on a downward slope, making it difficult to safely reduce speed. In one instance, she noted a 10-second window between a sign and a speed camera, with additional traffic and cyclists impeding her ability to slow down.
In her response to one charge, Ms. La Plante noted confusion regarding the signage transition from 30mph to 20mph. For another ticket, she pleaded guilty but wished to dispute the circumstances, emphasizing the short distance and downward gradient between speed limit indicators and the camera.
Court documents indicate that if convicted, Ms. La Plante could accumulate at least 12 penalty points on her license, potentially leading to an automatic six-month disqualification. The Metropolitan Police have brought the prosecutions under the Single Justice Procedure, while local councils are responsible for road signage and markings.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has been a proponent of expanding 20mph speed limits across the capital, citing data that suggests a reduction in road fatalities and serious injuries. However, analysis by sat-nav firm TomTom has identified London as the slowest capital city to drive in, attributing some of this to the widespread implementation of lower speed limits.
Ms. La Plante is due to appear at Lavender Hill Magistrates' Court on August 3. She is a CBE recipient for her contributions to literature, drama, and charity, and is also known for creating the television series "Widows."