Higher speed limits for heavy goods vehicles

14th May 2015

Speed limits in England and Wales for heavy goods vehicles weighing over 7.5 tonnes when loaded have risen from 40mph to 50mph on single carriageways – and from 50mph to 60mph on dual carriageways.

“This is a move to improve safety for all on single carriageway roads where the 20mph speed differential between cars and trucks can lead to hasty overtaking manoeuvres that sadly often result in casualties,” the Freight Transport Association’s Malcolm Bingham said.  “It will benefit industry as it will allow operators to use the additional speed, where it is safe to do so, and to gain running cost benefits.”

The current speed limit was introduced in the 1960s, since when lorry technology has advanced considerably.  The change will modernise an antiquated restriction which is not matched in most other European countries,” Malcolm Bingham added.

Neil Greig at the Institute of Advanced Motorists, added:  “Driver awareness is the key if this policy is to deliver safer roads.  There is widespread ignorance about current speed limits leading to frustration and road rage as platoons build up behind lorries being driven legally.  

“The new limits should reduce stress and ease bad overtaking.  This has been proven in the first few months of higher limits on the A9 in Scotland.”

The amended speed limit will cover single carriageway roads outside built up areas in England and Wales, unless specific lower local speed limits are in effect.