IAM: Govt should trial 80mph speed limit

Date: 7/11/2011

The government should trial the introduction of a new 80mph motorway speed limit on a controlled stretch of road.

This is according to the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), which stated this would enable experts to gauge the reaction of motorists, as well as the safety of the idea.

Research shows around a fifth of road users drive at more than 80mph on uncongested motorways, despite the speed limit being 70mph.

In September, the government announced it may increase the speed at which people are permitted to drive.

Chief Executive Officer of the IAM Simon Best said: "A detailed trial is needed to assess these risks though and if they are shown to increase significantly, of course a better-enforced 70mph limit may be a more appropriate system."

Earlier this month, the organisation warned councils not to cut back on winter road services such as gritting during the colder months.

Posted by Sarah Bailey