A WHOPPING 13,000 drivers have been caught breaking a rule that millions ignore.
In an attempt to improve road safety, a growing number of low speed zones have been enforced in Wales.
Wales enforced 20mph speed limits last year across all restricted roads.
As of September 2024, over 13,000 motorists have been caught out by the change.
Research by GoSafe showed that the average speed offence in Mid and South Wales was 28.4mph.
In North Wales, the average speed was around 28.6mph.
The research also found 6,480 offences happened in Mid and South Wales, while 6,667 took place in North Wales.
Now, motorists want a stop to be put to these pesky zones.
Andrew RT Davies MS, Leader of the Welsh Conservatives is also a supporter of the banishment of the low speed schemes, GB News reports.
He said: “When it is finally scrapped, people will look back at this policy as an enormous failure.
“While motorists who completely disregard speed limits should face consequences, the average offence speed suggests that many motorists are confused by the new rules, which even Welsh Government Ministers admit have been badly rolled out.
“The Welsh Conservatives would scrap these barmy rules and limit 20mph zones to common sense areas like outside school and hospitals.”
Considering September was the highest month for speed offences, this could indeed show motorists don’t know understand where the speed limits operate.
The scheme was introduced in September 2023, but it has been enforced slowly to allow motorists to prepare.
Not only this, but it gave local authorities time to improve roadside engagement instead of throwing fines around.
GoSafe, Welsh Fire and Rescue Services and others have also tried helping motorists prepare for the change.
How do I find out which roads are 20mph?
If there are streetlights in the area you are driving in, the 20mph limit most likely applies.
Signage should inform motorists of the speed if streetlights aren’t present.
Why did the Welsh Government introduce 20mph speed limits?
- To reduce road collisions and injuries.
- By reducing injuries, pressure should reduce on the NHS.
- Encourage more green methods of travel such as walking and cycling.
- Better health and well-being.
- Overall street safety.
Wales was actually one of the first countries in the world to turn restricted roads into 20mph zones.
However, in 2024, the public had the chance to say whether they approve of the changes.
Speed limit rules in the UK
IMPORTANT: A speed limit is a maximum.
In built up areas in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland the speed limit for all motors is 30mph.
Except in Wales, the speed limit in these areas is 20mph.
Although local councils can set their own speed limits there must be clear signage on show.
On single and dual carriageways and motorways the speed limits vary depending on motor type.
Cars, motorcycles, car-derived vans and dual-purpose vehicles typically can all driver at a higher speed limit than larger vehicles such as buses, lorries, coaches and motorhomes.
