You are required to adhere to the speed limit designated for the road you are driving on or for your vehicle. In the absence of any other posted limit, the national speed limit for cars and motorcycles is:
- 60 mph (96 km/h) on a single carriageway road
- 70 mph (112 km/h) on a dual carriageway or motorway.
Vehicles towing a trailer or caravan must adhere to lower speed limits of:
- 50 mph (80 km/h) on a single carriageway road
- 60 mph (96 km/h) on a dual carriageway or motorway.
In England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, the presence of street lights typically indicates a 30 mph (48 km/h) speed limit for all vehicles, unless stated otherwise by signs. However, in Wales, the default speed limit in such areas is typically 20 mph (32 km/h).
Occasionally, you may encounter signs indicating a minimum speed limit on certain roads. Unless it’s unsafe to do so, you should aim to travel at or above the speed limit indicated on these signs.
Self-reflection: Have you found yourself exceeding the speed limit at times? It’s important to discuss with your instructor how to accurately identify and adhere to speed limits. Additionally, ensure you understand that speed limits represent the maximum allowable speed and may not always be safe given the road and traffic conditions. Driving at speeds unsuitable for the conditions can pose significant risks.
Always exercise caution and adapt your driving to suit the prevailing conditions. When navigating streets lined with parked cars, it’s crucial to reduce your speed and remain vigilant for various hazards, including:
- Pedestrians, particularly children, who may emerge suddenly from behind or between parked vehicles.
- Vehicles pulling out onto the road, potentially without warning.
- Drivers opening their doors as they exit parked vehicles, which can encroach onto your path.
By driving attentively and adjusting your speed accordingly, you can better anticipate and respond to these potential dangers, enhancing safety for yourself and others on the road.