Press release -
Welcome for common-sense approach to speed limits
RAC has welcomed the Government’s announcement that it is to launch a public consultation on lower speed limits for rural and urban roads.
New Department for Transport plans will consider reducing speed limits on some country roads to 40mph and the introduction of more 20mph zones on urban roads.
David Bizely, RAC technical director, said: “Most drivers are happy with current limits but there is also broad support for lower limits where there is a proven benefit for road safety such as near schools and accident black spots.”
The RAC Report on Motoring 2012, which surveys more than 1,000 drivers and is in its 24th year, found that two-thirds of motorists (70% rural and 63% urban drivers) support different speed limits on similar classes of road dependent on suitability.
“It is an issue of balance between mobility and safety. There is definitely a case for lower limits on some dangerous roads and rural roads with hazardous bends and junctions, but we would challenge a blanket reduction on all country roads. It is wholly appropriate that local authorities should be encouraged to deal with such roads on an individual basis looking at local road conditions,” said Bizley.
“Like the 80mph limit for some stretches of motorway – which has strong support from motorists (62%) – it makes sense to trial these new speed limits and assess their merits based on the circumstances of specific roads.”
However, the Report on Motoring also discovered that 37% of drivers admit to speeding in 50/60mph zones, 46% admit to speeding in 30mph and 36% admit to speeding in 20mph zones.
“Clearly there is an argument that in most cases we have appropriate speed limits but there is a concern around the effective enforcement of these limits. And we would also encourage the Government to re-think their policy on their spending levels on road safety campaigns which have been cut from £18 million to just £2 million,” said Bizley.
RAC also revealed there are growing concerns among motorists regarding the behaviour of other drivers. Three of the top five concerns held by motorists are now about the behaviour of other drivers – and they are particularly alarmed by the growing use of mobile phones and social media.
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About the RAC
First formed in 1897, the RAC has been looking after the needs of its members and championing the interests of drivers for more than 120 years.
Today it has more than eight million members and is one of the UK’s most progressive motoring organisations, providing services for both private and business motorists. Whether it's roadside assistance, insurance, buying a used car, vehicle inspections and checks, legal services or up-to-the-minute traffic and travel information – the RAC offers a solution for all motoring needs. The RAC is committed to making motoring easier, safer, more affordable and more enjoyable for drivers and road users.
The RAC is the motorist’s champion and campaigns to support the interests of its members and UK drivers at a national level. This includes voicing concerns about the increasing cost of motoring, particularly the price of fuel and the high level of tax levied on it, advancing levels of road safety, and supporting the needs of all drivers, from young to old.
The RAC’s annual Report on Motoring – first published in 1989 – is one of a kind and provides a clear insight into the concerns and issues facing today’s motorists.
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