New campaign helps motorists identify and stay within 30mph speed limits
Warwickshire Casualty Reduction Partnership has launched a new campaign to help drivers identify and stay within 30mph speed limits. The campaign delivers a very simple message: ‘Street lights, but no speed signs means the limit is 30.’
The campaign is being displayed on billboards across the county. It addresses the common excuse given by drivers for exceeding speed limits in urban areas; that they didn’t know what the limit was because there were no speed limit signs. The campaign reminds drivers of information provided in the Highway Code. The Highway Code states that the speed limit in built up areas is 30mph. It continues by saying “The 30mph limit applies to all traffic on all roads in England and Wales with street lighting unless signs show otherwise.”
County Councillor Martin Heatley, Environment Cabinet Portfolio holder said:
“This campaign reminds motorists that the limit in street lit areas is always 30mph unless signs say otherwise. Rules for road signs mean there are no reminder signs on street lit roads with a 30mph limit, however there will be reminder signs if the limit is higher than 30mph. If drivers find themselves in an area where they are unsure of the speed limit they should apply the very simple rule; street lights, but no speed signs means the limit is 30.”
Cllr Heatley continues:
“The survival rate of a child pedestrian hit by a car travelling at 40mph is just 20% compared to 80% if hit at 30mph. This statistic shows why it is so crucially important for motorists to observe 30mph speed limits.”
A leaflet that provides advice on identifying and staying within speed limits is available by visiting http://www.smilecamera.co.uk or by telephoning 01926 412740.