20mph zones wanted outside schools, IAM poll shows

A quarter would like to see the default speed limit in all built-up areas

A poll by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has shown that 67 per of people think 20mph zones should be used outside schools.

38 per cent think that they should be used on roads with amenities such as parks and shops, but only a quarter would like to see them made the default speed limit in all built-up areas.

43 per cent of people would like the road outside their house to have a 20mph speed limit, but 39 per cent would not.

40 per cent of people think that this speed limit is best enforced by speed limit signs, leaving the police to enforce the limit and the public to comply, but only 20 per cent are in favour of safety cameras.

21 per cent support a combination of measures including road humps and cameras. Respondents felt that enforcing the limit in 20mph zones should be of medium priority compared to other road policing duties.

IAM head of road safety Kevin Delaney said: "The IAM supports the selective use of 20mph speed limits where there is clear evidence that the risk of casualties will be reduced. But blanket 20mph speed limits or limits at inappropriate sites risk widespread disregard by drivers who do not recognise a necessity for them."

"If lower speed limits are restricted to locations and times where there is an obvious need, responsible drivers, who are the overwhelming majority, will adhere to them without the need for enforcement."

Further information:
IAM