Drivers, Know Your Limits

There are not too many drivers who can say that they have never exceeded the speed limit.

The rules are there to keep everyone safe, and it is astonishing how many drivers are unsure of the speed limit rules.

According to The Highway Code (available in most bookshops as a paperback at a cost of approximately £2:50 or available free online),  Rules 124
states:

You MUST NOT exceed the maximum speed limits for the road and for your vehicle. The presence of street lights generally means that there is a 30 mph (48 km/h) speed limit unless otherwise specified. 

Rule 125 continues to advise:

The speed limit is the absolute maximum and does not mean it is safe to drive at that speed irrespective of conditions. Driving at speeds too fast for the road and traffic conditions is dangerous. You should always reduce your speed when:

• the road layout or condition presents hazards, such as bends
• sharing the road with pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders, particularly children, and motorcyclists
• weather conditions make it safer to do so
• driving at night as it is more difficult to see other road users

The National Speed Limit for cars and motorcycles (including car-derived vans up to 2 tonnes max laden weight) are as follows:

• Built-up areas*                  30 mph

• Single carriageways          60 mph 

• Dual carriageways            70 mph 

• Motorways                        70 mph  

* The 30 mph limit usually applies to all traffic on all roads with street lighting unless signs show otherwise.

The Good Garage Scheme advises all motorists to drive safely and if in any doubt about the braking system on their vehicle, visit a local member garage soon.

It's like having a friend in the know.