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Brits In Favour Of More 20mph Speed Limits
Tue, 16 Aug 2011

A new survey by the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) has revealed Britons’ feelings towards the introduction of more 20mph speed zones on UK roads.

The poll of nearly 4000 people by the UK’s largest independent road safety charity found that over two-thirds of people (67 per cent) believe they should be used outside schools, while 38 per cent think they should be introduced on roads with amenities such as parks and shops.

However, only 25 per cent would like to see them made the default speed limit in all built-up areas across the country.

Forty per cent of Brits think that 20mph speed limits are best enforced by signage, while only 20 per cent believe safety cameras are the best option to get drivers to slow down. A similar figure said they support the use of a combination of measures including speed humps and cameras.

In terms of enforcing the limit in 20mph zones, most respondents said that this should be of medium priority compared to other road policing duties.

Kevin Delaney, head of road safety at the IAM, said: "The IAM supports the selective use of 20mph speed limits where there is clear evidence that the risk of casualties will be reduced."

"But blanket 20mph speed limits of limits at inappropriate sites risk widespread disregard by drivers who do not recognise a necessity for them. Consultation with, and buy-in from, local people here is essential."

"Passive enforcement measures, such as speed humps, are unpopular and active enforcement by police is unrealistic in the current financial climate."

"If lower speed limits are restricted to locations and times where there is an obvious need, responsible drivers, who are the overwhelming majority, will adhere to them without the need for enforcement."
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