British Drivers Hit With a Penalty Charge Fine Every 2.5 Seconds

A speed camera on a central London road. A new report re-ignites the debate of whether automated technology is creating "cash cows" for local councils and the police. Ian Waldie/Getty Images

One third of Britain’s drivers are hit by a penalty notice each year, the equivalent of one every 2 1/2 seconds, according to new research.

This means about 12 million of Britain’s 40 million drivers receive a penalty charge each year.