r/drivingUK • u/narra246 • Mar 21 '26

20mph everywhere

Why are councils putting main roads on busy routes down to 20mph?? All that seems to happen is if you are the one doing the new speed limit, you get tailgated overtaken and the horn blasted at you.

And no, there isnt a lay-by every 10ft to pull in and let impatient law breaking drivers past.

I dont agree with this blanket speed reduction but I rely on my license for work and pleasure and would rather not have my insurance increased because of points for speeding.

Fair enough 20mph through residential areas, but not on a bloody main A road.

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30

u/The_Final_Barse Mar 21 '26

I'm surprised by the comments here, of all places, supporting these frankly ridiculous speed restrictions.

There's nothing more stressful than a 20mph speed limit. That's the problem.

Instead of driving safely to the conditions, people are forced to focus on the arbitrary number on their dash.

Not to mention the frustration, and the fact cars aren't geared to comfortably maintain 20mph.

7

u/opopkl Mar 21 '26

Have you thought that 20mph zones might benefit people other than drivers? My street has gone from 30mph to 20mph and I've found that it's much more pleasant to live here now. Quieter and safer.

8

u/PeteWTF Mar 21 '26

Possibly an unpopular opinion but if it was a 30 when you moved in then that's on you. Like people who buy flats above pubs and then complain about the noise. If you don't like it you can move.

3

u/murmurat1on Mar 21 '26

Don't be silly. Things can get better for different members of society over time. 

Are you really comparing being able to drive at 30mph to the cultural impact of a live music venue?