In September, Wales implemented a default 20mph speed limit in most residential and built-up areas as part of their motoring law. This move, aimed at reducing road deaths, noise, and promoting walking and cycling, has stirred controversy. While some support it, a petition against the limits with around 400,000 signatures from Welsh residents has arisen. The impact of these lower speed limits on daily life for Welsh drivers and visitors is a topic of ongoing discussion. Here’s what you need to know.
Why has the speed limit been reduced?
The change to a default 20mph speed limit in Wales is based on the success of similar limits in European countries. The Welsh government believes that this reduction in speed will result in 40% fewer road collisions and prevent 1,200 to 2,000 injuries annually. The policy aims to create safer streets for playing, walking, and cycling, reduce urban pollution, and promote alternative transportation methods. Recent trials in Wales showed that average speeds on these roads decreased by 3mph, and the government argues that for every 1mph reduction in speed, urban collisions decrease by approximately 6%.
How much is this change costing?
The Welsh Government claim the introduction of the 20mph speed limit in Wales came at a cost of £32 million. However, this expense is justified by the potential savings in terms of casualty prevention, which include reduced strain on the NHS and emergency services. A public health study suggests that these savings could amount to as much as £92 million annually. Additionally, the broader health benefits resulting from increased walking and cycling should be considered in assessing the overall impact of this policy.
Where is the 20mph speed limit in effect?
The 20mph speed limit is now the default in Wales for residential roads without speed signage. However, some roads are exempt and maintain the old 30mph limit, although they should have appropriate signage indicating this change.
You can refer to this map to identify the locations where these exemptions apply.
What happens if I'm caught speeding in a 20mph zone?
You could be fined for driving at 30mph on a residential road with a 20mph speed limit in Wales. The penalty for this offense could be a minimum of £100 and three penalty points on your driving record. However, during the initial 12 months following the implementation of the new speed limits, the police have indicated that they will exercise proportionality and reasonableness. They may not issue fines to those who are actively cooperating to bring their speed down.
Speed cameras in Wales have been adjusted to enforce the new speed limit, and they will generally penalize drivers going at 26mph and over. It's essential to adhere to the new speed limits and not rely on excuses like inaccurate speedometers, as these may not be accepted.
Will the lowering of the speed limit add to my journey times?
One key criticism raised by the petition is the concern that the 20mph speed limit will lead to longer journey times and potential road congestion. While the petition's choice of words may be strong, it's clear that reducing the speed from 30mph to 20mph will increase travel times.
The Welsh government, however, disagrees with this criticism and argues that similar policies implemented in other countries, such as Spain reducing limits to 20mph on single carriageways, did not result in such negative effects on travel times and traffic congestion.
Will driving at 20mph mean I use more fuel?
Driving at 20mph does not necessarily lead to increased fuel consumption. Fuel efficiency is primarily determined by driving behavior, with consistent speeds being more fuel-efficient than frequent stops and starts. In fact, accelerating from 0 to 30mph can consume twice as much energy as accelerating to 20mph. Therefore, adhering to a default 20mph limit and adopting a smooth driving style can help prevent unnecessary speed fluctuations and ultimately save fuel.
Are cyclists allowed to overtake me when I am driving at 20mph?
In Wales, the Highway Code has been updated to establish a default speed limit of 20mph for motorists on most roads in residential and built-up areas. However, this speed limit does not apply to cyclists. Strictly speaking, there is no specific speed limit for cyclists in these areas, so they are not bound by the 20mph limit and may overtake cars if they can do so safely and within the bounds of general traffic laws and regulations.
