Transport Scotland recently published a National Speed Management Review. In this post we’ll discuss the proposals in the review, and assess how they might impact your fleet.
Road safety laws change all the time, which can make fleet management challenging. We can help make life a little easier through supporting you to get the right cover for your fleet, at a competitive price. For more information, get in touch with us on 020 8290 9099 or email us at commercial.motor@anthonyjones.com.
Aims of the Scotland’s National Speed Management Review
The aim of Transport Scotland’s National Speed Management Review is to reduce injury and death on Scottish roads through ensuring speed limits are “appropriate”.
Scotland’s National Speed Management Review Proposals
The proposal is to reduce the national speed limits on single-carriageway roads from 60 mph and 50 mph. But at the same time, they are proposing to raise the national speed limit of goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes from 40 mph to 50 mph on single carriageways, and from 50 mph to 60 mph on dual carriageways.
You can learn more about the review on Transport Scotland’s site.
Why Does Transport Scotland Want To Raise The Speed Limit For Lorries?
Transport Scotland tested a 50mph speed limit for HGVs, along with average speed cameras, on single carriageway stretches of the A9. They reported improved driver behaviour, and a 31% reduction in the number of fatalities and serious injuries on the roads.
With an increased speed limit, HGVs can travel for longer periods at an optimum speed for fuel efficiency. Higher speed limits also reduce driver stress and frustration, and means that other drivers are less likely to attempt risky overtaking.
England and Wales made similar changes to HGV speed limits in 2015. The Department for Transport published a lengthy report on the impact of the change. Positive outcomes included:
- Improved traffic flows
- An overall reduction in HGVs exceeding legal speed limits
- No increase in harmful emissions
- No perceptible change in noise levels
- Huge savings for businesses in terms of reduced journey times and vehicle operating costs
Criticisms and Responses to the Review
There has been a mixed response to this proposal.
One road safety consultant welcomed the possible speed limit increase for HGVs, but described the plan to reduce speed limits for other drivers as “a cheap gimmick that would do little to reduce death and injury.
“Research shows the average speed on 60mph roads is just over 50mph, so it would have little impact.
“What is needed is more investment in road policing, average speed cameras, junction improvements and targeted investment in overtaking opportunities and other upgrades.”
When Would Changes to Speed Limits for HGVs Come Into Force?
The review will be under consultation until Wednesday 5 March. Members of the public and other stakeholders can provide feedback. Find out how you can take part in the consultation here.
If you’ve got any questions about how this proposed change might affect your fleet, we’re here to help. We can advise on risk management, and we can help you get the cover you need at a competitive price.
For more information, get in touch with us on 020 8290 9099 or email us at commercial.motor@anthonyjones.com.
