Sponsored by
Driving expert calls for 90mph motorway limit
A MEMBER of an accident prevention group has welcomed proposals to increase speed limits on motorways.
Advanced driving instructor and member of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents Ken Jack believes the move would reduce the number of accidents on the roads.
Shadow Transport Secretary Damien Green tabled an amendment to the Government's Traffic Management Bill on Tuesday which would see the motorway speed limit raised from 70mph to 80mph, and a reduction of speed limits in areas near schools, parks and hospitals.
Mr Jack, of Pipewell, said: "I think it is absolutely fantastic what is being proposed, but I believe 90mph would be more realistic.
"Obviously only where it is clear and when it is safe to do so. The speed limit in France for example is higher and we should come into line with other countries.
"Increasing the speed limit may reduce accidents because people will keep focused on driving and not keep looking for speed cameras. It is vital drivers keep focused on the roads. Constantly looking at the speedometer in the car is a distraction."
Mr Jack also supports the amendment to reduce speed limits in built-up areas.
He said: "I believe most accidents happen at 30mph and it is necessary to reduce speed limits in some areas.
"Whatever happens with the amendment to the Bill, all drivers must adhere to the law."
The Department of Transport said the idea had previously been rejected on road safety grounds but would be kept under review.
Mr Green told the BBC: "This is part of a wider campaign we have got for more realistic and appropriate speed limits.
"While we are arguing that the speed limit on the motorway should go up, we also argue that in other areas for instance near schools, parks and hospitals, the speed limit should be reduced to 20mph."
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Kettering
Friday 25 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 21 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 22 C
Wind Speed: 20 mph
Wind direction: East
