Speed limit changes on rural roads face criticism. Critics call the plan a lazy road safety answer.
People called the idea “madness” and “nonsense”. Some think it solves a nonexistent problem. The Scottish Government is reviewing speed limits, and they might raise the HGV speed limit on certain roads. Transport Scotland runs this review, ending soon.
Highland Council backs higher HGV limits but doesn’t support lowering car speed limits. CRR shared the government survey on Facebook and asked people for their views on the plan.
CRR wanted many views and a balanced report. The report will go to officials and the media. So far, strong feelings exist against the new limit. Support appears for higher HGV speed limits, though some worry about more traffic and frustration.
Comments suggest accidents stem less from speed; bad driving might be a bigger factor instead. Frustration may cause drivers to be more reckless, and some fear more speed cameras along roads.
CRR supports local speed reductions only, such as the Forss straight. Some noted poor roads and the A9’s lack of dual lanes. One person saw merit for central belt limits, but objections to the proposals are overwhelming, they said.
Gregory pointed out CRR and the council agree. Existing speed limits began decades ago, and cars are much safer now than in the past. Current HGV limits may no longer make sense.
“Safety” is the reason given for the changes; Gregory says important points are overlooked, though. Different speed limits help separate traffic now, which prevents bunching and ensures smooth flow. Most drivers handle 60 mph safely.
Gregory has investigated many collisions and said most accidents are due to driver error instead. Misusing speed is the danger, not the limit itself. Reduced limits are a “lazy answer” to road safety. Education plus police patrols are better, says Gregory.
Gregory is a retired police officer who worked over 30 years in the Highlands and Islands. He investigated deadly accidents in northern Scotland. Councillor Ken Gowans sees a “significant impact” on people’s lives.
Highland Council believes lower limits would affect daily life. Longer travel times might result from the changes. The council approved its response to the review last week and made clear they oppose the 50 mph limit for cars.
Gowans welcomed the chance to state their position. He supports raising HGV limits, not lowering the car limit. The Highland area has a large road network, and the lower limit could greatly affect people there.
The review says the changes maintain journey times. Council wants to see this analysis, especially for rural areas. New limits could affect rural communities, behavior, and economy, and they might lead to aggressive driving if frustration rises.
Gowans added the changes affect police resources also. A national media campaign would be needed to support it. Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop calls road safety a priority.
The government believes the changes cut collisions and shouldn’t affect travel times much, they suggest. The review’s final date for feedback is March 5th. If approved, car limits drop to 50 mph, and HGV limits rise on some roads too.