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UK Speed Limit--Should it Stay or should it Go?
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The maximum speed limit on Britain's roads could be raised to 80mph very soon. Transport Secretary Philip Hammond is debating whether faster journey times could boost the economy.
Eco campaigners however, say the long-standing 70mph limit should be reduced in an effort to avoid safety risks. The Institute of Advanced Motoring (IAM) has found in a recent survey that more than 70 per cent of drivers and riders think that the UK motorway speed limit should increase by at least 10mph.The IAM said they'd like to see a test trial first, in order to assess the new speed limit's impact on road safety, fuel consumption, and driver behaviour.
But is it a safe move to make?
Some argue that an 80mph speed limit would only give drivers an excuse to travel at 90mph and that an accident at 80mph will have much greater consequences than one at 70mph. Others say the current 70mph adds to delays on motorways that cost industry billions of pounds a year.
Many are also discussing the odd timing of this debate considering that many UK drivers are slowing down on their own because of the need to save fuel and money.
For example, Spain in contrast recently cut its motorway speed limit from 75mph to 68mph, to save fuel in the midst of the oil crisis.
So what will it be? Will you stay at 70 or go at 80?
Replies
I'm not convinced that raising the speed limit is the best way of improving traffic flow on motorways (never mind the safety and fuel consumption issues).
I think a lot of delays on the motorway are caused by poor lane discipline and not leaving enough gap between yourself and the vehicle in front. Breaking on the motorway triggers a domino effect that can snowball into delays behind you.
Driving on the motorway is easy when you know how, but learner drivers are not allowed on the motorway - therefore most are never taught the basics. I think this should change to ensure all learner drivers get at least one lesson on the motorway.
I also think a public education campaign would help to show people how poor lane discipline and insufficient stopping distances cause delay.
Hopester77, good point. Experience is definitely a huge factor that should have been mentioned in relation to delays and traffic flow. I'm surprised, it doesn't seem to be mentioned at all in the British press or by authorities discussing the issue. Thanks for your comment.