Web Forum: Twin speed

Jan 27 2010 by Andrew Jackson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

AN interesting idea from one of our top posters on the Web forum.

Otis enlightened us (once again!): “There are always a lot different viewpoints about road speed limits. One of the biggest reasons, I think, for many motorists getting caught out is that the majority of drivers, rightly or wrongly, drive at a speed at which they decide is safe for road conditions they are looking at at the time. I am not condoning this, merely expressing my belief that it happens.

“I believe it is time to address each danger site individually. For these areas we could have a split road sign showing for example 20/40 with an attached sign as we have for bus lanes informing drivers of the times when the lower limit was in force.

“Once drivers have got used to seeing them they will know that the lower limit applies at certain times of the day, and that there is a reason for it and to warn them to take extra care. This can be a valuable aid for drivers unfamiliar with the area.Then a case can be made for supporting these limits with cameras.”

phil3 disagreed: “Unfortunately Otis, you are making an assumption that drivers read road signs. In most instances, this is simply not the case.

“You only have to look at the example of the bus lanes. When they are active cars use them, and when they are not active, everyone stays out of them, or simply follows what all the other drivers are doing.

“The majority of drivers are not concentrating on the driving task at the best of times, therefore adding more and more signs and lines is not the answer.

“If all cars had a 12in spike projecting from the centre of the steering wheel, only then would drivers take more care and focus on the driving task effectively!”

AndyA commented on both views: “Otis, thank you so much for articulating what I have been thinking for years. Implementing that scheme might be problematic but we have the technology to have those dynamic speed limits on motorways, enforced by cameras if necessary.

“I’ve never understood why some arbitrary limit of 70mph is considered preferable regardless of the conditions. Surely any law which isn’t enforced is a bad law?

“As for Phil’s point about concentration – try driving down Wakefield Road and watch as everyone speeds up in between the cameras and then slams their brakes on. Surely you’d prefer it if people were actually basing their speeds on road conditions rather than the likelihood of picking up a fine?’