Speed limit signs play a crucial role in regulating vehicle speeds, and is a key part of the Highway Code.
Residential roads commonly have a 30 mph speed limit, marked by repeater signs in areas without street lighting. Repeater signs also indicate speed limits on roads with different speed constraints. Vigilance is essential, as not all roads may have repeater signs.
For single carriageways, the national speed limit for cars and motorcycles is typically 60 mph while on dual carriageways it is 70 mph. These limits are determined by the presence of a central reservation, not the number of lanes.
It’s important to recognise that speed limits are not targets; drivers can adjust their speed up to the limit if conditions permit. Drivers bear the responsibility of knowing the speed limit for the road they are on, and signs are typically located near turns, junctions, roundabouts, country road entries and exits, and transitions from residential areas to faster road layouts. Awareness of speed limit changes is crucial for safe and lawful driving.