The controversial overnight switch off of Essex street lights could open the door for drivers to break the speed limits by taking advantage of a legal loophole, according to a motoring lawyer.
Seven in every 10 of the county's 127,000 lamps are turned off every night between midnight and 5am, a cost-cutting move by Essex County Council.
However some have expressed concerns that the move may lead to an increase in crime and the number of road accidents.
One such person is barrister Antony Hook, a regular representative of motorists in court, who believes turning off the street lights could provide a loophole for speeding drivers.
He said: "The courts have ruled that speed limits may not apply if street lights are broken, too far apart or illuminate the pavement instead of the road.
"It follows that there is a strong legal argument that switching off street lights can also remove a speed limit.
"Motorists may have a defence to a speeding charge because street lights have been switched off.
"This may make all the difference as to whether or not people get points, a fine or lose their driving licence and possibly their job as well."
