Nine in ten drivers break speed limits in 20mph zones

New official figures show that speeding motorists are refusing to stick to 20mph limits, putting schoolchildren, the elderly and others at risk.

Data released by the Department for Transport (DfT) found that a staggering 86% of all journeys made through 20mph zones last year broke the speed limit. 

Given that the majority of these zones are in residential areas and around schools, this recklessness is endangering vulnerable pedestrians and other road users.  

It’s not only these slower limits being breached, with almost half (48%) of journeys on motorways made over the 70mph speed limit.

The figures make grim reading for road safety campaigners and bring into sharp focus a speeding epidemic on the UK’s roads.

Data collected on 446.6 million journeys at 74 sites across the UK found that a worrying number of motorists are breaking the law at every speed limit.

In 30mph zones more than half (52%) of journeys were made at speeds over the limit, despite this being the threshold for most residential and urban areas.  

READ MORE: Speeding fines — how much you now have to pay

The study also found over a third (34%) of drivers were guilty of tailgating on motorways by failing to keep the recommended two-second gap to the vehicle in front.

Highways England estimates that 12% of casualties on England’s major roads are caused by tailgaters, prompting the organisation to launch a campaign raising awareness of the dangers to drivers.

SEE ALSO: Speed limits in the UK: know the laws

If you’re caught breaking the speed limit it’s likely you’ll receive a Fixed Penalty Notice of a £100 fine and three points on your licence.

However, should you ignore this fine or be deemed to be a serious offender you could end up in court and face higher fines, more penalty points, or even end up having your licence revoked. 

Speaking in 2017, RAC road safety spokesman Pete Williams lamented the reduction of roads policing officers and called for a multi-faceted approach to get drivers to stop speeding. 

He said: “We believe it requires a combination of factors to be effective in achieving a behaviour change. It needs tougher penalties, better targeted enforcement, better education and understanding of the risks, and drivers have to take personal responsibility for their actions.”

Copyright Press Association 2018. Motoring News articles do not reflect the RAC's views unless clearly stated.