Frequently asked questions
Q: What is the National Speed Management Review?
A: The National Speed Management Review is examining changes to speed limits on Scotland's roads.
Q – Why has a National Speed Management Review been undertaken?
A: The review aims to ensure speed limits are appropriate and contribute to reducing the number of those being killed and injured on Scotland’s roads.
Q – What work has been undertaken to date?
A – The review has assessed options to enhance road safety through extensive research, including an analysis of international practices and engagement with stakeholders. Key initiatives include, assessing a reduction of the national speed limit for motor vehicles on single-carriageway roads and increasing speed limits for HGVs.
Q: What changes are being proposed?
A: The review has proposed a reduction in the speed limit on single-carriageway roads for motor vehicles from 60 mph to 50 mph and increase HGV speed limits to 50 mph on single carriageways and 60 mph on dual carriageways.
Q: What are the potential benefits of reducing speed limits?
A: Lowering speeds could significantly reduce casualties. Research has found that for every 1 km/h reduction, road fatalities decrease by 8%, and overall casualties reduce by 6%. Reduced speeds can also improve traffic flow and air quality.
Q: What about the impact on journey times?
A: Analysis shows that these changes will have a minimal impact on journey times for most journeys while maintaining safety and reliability.
Q: Have changes like these been implemented elsewhere?
A: Yes. Similar changes in countries like Wales and France have led to measurable reductions in casualties and collision severity, such as a 32% casualty reduction on certain roads in Wales.
Q: Why increase speed limits for HGVs?
A: Increasing HGV speed limits would reduce the speed differential between HGVs and other vehicles, decreasing driver frustration and enhancing safety. Since the introduction of the 50 mph speed limit trial for HGVs on the A9 single carriageway sections between Perth and Inverness there has been improved driver behaviour on this section of the route, a greater compliance with speed limits and a reduction in deaths and serious injuries.
Q: Can Scottish Ministers legally change speed limits?
A: Yes. Scottish Ministers have the devolved authority to amend speed limits to enhance road safety and manage traffic effectively.
Q: Will motorway and dual-carriageway speed limits be changed?
A: No changes are proposed for these roads at this time, as they are regarded as Scotland’s safest roads and reducing speeds could significantly impact journey times.
Q: Does this review cover the implementation of 20 mph speed limits?
A: No. Separate commitments are in place to implement 20 mph limits where appropriate by 2025.
Q: How can the public participate in the consultation?
A:Feedback can be provided online at National Speed Management Review Consultation. Additionally, in-person and online engagement sessions will be held to ensure a wide range of views are heard.
Q: When does the consultation close?
A: The consultation will close on Wednesday 5 March 2025.
Q: What happens after the consultation?
A: Responses will be analysed, and recommendations will be made to Scottish Ministers. Proposed changes, if any, will be announced with timelines for implementation.