Plans to extend 20mph speed limits across more UK roads are facing resistance from drivers, new research reveals.
A recent survey by Quotezone.co.uk found that 66% of respondents said they were not in favour of reducing key 30mph roads to 20mph.
The study of 1,000 British adults, showed over two-thirds (67%) think 20mph roads are simply too slow.
The findings come amid ongoing discussions across parts of the UK about expanding 20mph zones, hoping to improve road safety and reduce accidents in urban areas.
Last month, the government launched a new road safety strategy, which aims to reduce deaths and serious injuries on Britain’s roads by 65% by 2035.
The strategy revealed there will be a new edition of the best practice guidance on setting local speed limits, which suggests there may be significant changes to the 30mph default limit on urban roads.
Wales is leading the way in terms of adopting lower speed limits and has already implemented a default 20mph rule on residential and built-up roads.
Scotland and England are also following suit, with many regions already rolling out a 20mph speed limit in urban areas.
London has seen significant progress, with lower speed limits in place on more than half of urban roads, while the North West is close behind, with over 45% now set at 20mph.
While public opinion may be divided on the approach, in the first year of the new 20mph limit, Wales saw approximately 100 fewer people killed or seriously injured, and research shows that even an average speed reduction of just 1mph can cut crash frequency by 5%.
As more roads move to lower limits, drivers are being encouraged to stay alert to changing signage and adjust their driving accordingly.
Sticking to the indicated limits ensures motorists avoid fines, penalty points and potential increases to their insurance premiums.
Greg Wilson, car insurance expert and CEO at Quotezone.co.uk said: “With changes to speed limits continuing to be discussed across the UK, our research suggests many motorists remain unconvinced about reducing key 30mph roads to 20mph, with concerns likely centred around journey times and practicality.
“That being said, evidence from Wales, for example, demonstrates that lower limits can have a positive impact on road safety, with data from the first year of implementation showing fewer people killed or seriously injured.
“Ultimately, decisions around speed limits sit with local authorities, and they must balance public sentiment with safety outcomes, congestion, and the needs of different road users when assessing what’s appropriate for their communities.
“With lower limits appearing on more roads, it’s important drivers watch for signage and adapt their speed to make sure they stay safe and avoid fines.
“From an insurance perspective, any measure that successfully reduces collisions is positive news for premium prices. Fewer accidents could lead to fewer claims, and over time that has the potential to ease the pressure on car insurance costs.”
As a price comparison site, Quotezone helps drivers compare and find savings on all sorts of motoring products, such as van, fleet and car insurance.
