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Speed limits

 

Why do only some places have speed limit signs?

  • We provide signs at the start of a speed limit, or where the speed limit changes
  • If there is street lighting, the speed limit is 30mph, unless there are signs for a different limit
  • By law we can't put in extra 30mph signs where there is street lighting
  • Where there is no street lighting the national speed limit applies, unless there are signs for a different limit.

What is the national speed limit?                    

  • The national speed limit for cars and motorcycles is 60mph on single carriageways and 70mph on dual carriageways and motorways. Goods vehicles, buses and towing cars have different limits - see the Highway Code online.

Do speed limits work?

  • Yes, provided that we use the right limit in the right place, they can help reduce speed and accidents.

How is a speed limit changed?

  • Changing a speed limit involves a legal process called a traffic regulation order (TRO). This includes consultation, advertising, considering objections and getting councillors' agreement. The whole process usually takes about 12 months, but can be longer where there are objections.

Do lower speed limits result in lower speeds?

  • Not always. Sometimes speed increases when we change the limit from 40mph to 30mph. Speed can decease when we raise the speed limit from 30mph to 40mph.

Useful links:

Safer Motoring website - information on speed limits



Last updated 14/10/2008 15:48:37


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