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Thumbs up to schools slow down
21:12, Aug 21 2011
Drive Talking
by Ian Johnson, drivingforce.uk.net
A BLANKET 20mph speed limit outside schools may become the norm after 67 per cent of Brits surveyed gave it the thumbs up.
This is according to the Institute of Advanced Motorists which conducted a study into what has become a bone of contention.
The IAM survey concluded that a further 38 per cent think that 20mph limits 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.
Forty-three per cent of people would also like the road outside their house to have a 20mph speed limit.
But there is a divergence of opinion over enforcement.
Forty 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.
Physical measures to slow people down are less popular, with only 20 per cent in favour of safety cameras, and only 21 per cent supporting a combination of devices 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.
The IAM poll is an interesting insight into the popularity of 20mph limits which will inevitably increase in number over the next few years.
Will they add to frustration of commuters and people who have to drive through built up areas? More than certainly yes, but in the long run they will, without doubt save lives and that is the best result of all.
