Motorists across the UK are being “caught out” by “secret” 20mph speed limit changes in built-up areas, according to experts. Cherie Carter, director at Indigo Car Hire, said motorists only realise the new rules are in place when a “fine drops through the letterbox”.
Local communities have been keen to replace existing 30mph speed limits with 20mph restrictions in a bid to boost road safety. However, local residents are feeling the sting, with many unaware of new rule changes until they are hit with penalties. Experts have called on road users to “wise up” and be aware of new road rules to avoid being affected with hefty fines and penalty points.
Cherie said: “Drivers are being caught out by what some are calling secret 20mph speed traps. People don’t realise the limit has changed until the fine drops through the letterbox, and motorists need to wise up.
“Even one fine could add points, push up your insurance and, if you are already near the limit, it could put you at risk of losing your licence.”
According to road safety charity Brake, pedestrians are 93% more likely to survive if they are struck by a vehicle at 20mph. They claimed that Spain reduced speed limits to 30km/h (18.64mph) on many urban routes back in 2019 to huge success.
The specialists claimed that since the change came into effect, urban road deaths dropped by 20%. It has been predicted that the new 20mph speed limit changes in Wales could save around 100 lives and prevent 200,000 injuries,
The usual fine for speeding is £100, and road users used to be hit with three penalty points if they were found to be travelling too fast. As explained by the RAC, this could have further knock-on effects, with road users likely to notice an increase in their car insurance bills.
The RAC added: “Local councils can introduce their own speed limits – although these must be clearly signed. Look for signs featuring a number within a red circle. In areas where vulnerable road users such as children and cyclists are frequently found, a 20mph limit is often enforced.
“These could be on small residential roads or near schools, and are often enforced by traffic calming measures such as speed bumps and chicanes to physically slow cars down.”