A staggering 13,000 drivers caught breaking rules, MILLIONS more ignore it – know the law to avoid points on your license

AN INCREDIBLE 13,000 drivers were caught breaking a rule that millions of people ignore.

In an attempt to improve road safety, an increasing number of low speed zones have been implemented in Wales.

Wales imposed 20mph speed limits last year on all restricted roads.

As of September 2024, more than 13,000 drivers have been caught up in the change.

Research by GoSafe showed the average offensive speed in Mid and South Wales was 28.4mph.

In North Wales, the average speed was around 45km/h.

The research also found that 6,480 crimes occurred in mid and south Wales, while 6,667 occurred in north Wales.

Now, drivers want these nuisance areas to stop.

Andrew RT Davies MS, leader of the Welsh Conservatives, also supports a ban on low-speed schemes, reports GB News.

He said: “When it is finally scrapped, people will look at this policy as a huge failure.

“While drivers who completely disregard speed limits should face consequences, the average speed of the offense suggests that many drivers are confused by the new rules, which even Welsh Government ministers admit have been poorly implemented.

“The Welsh Conservatives would ditch these crazy rules and limit 20mph zones to common sense areas like outside schools and hospitals.”

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Considering that September was the month with the highest number of speeding violations, this may indeed show that drivers are unaware of where speed limits operate.

The scheme was introduced in September 2023 but has been rolled out slowly to allow drivers to prepare.

Not only that, but it gave local authorities time to improve engagement on the roads rather than handing out fines.

GoSafe, Welsh Fire and Rescue Services and others have also tried to help drivers prepare for the change.

How do I find out which roads are 20mph?

If there are street lights in the area you are driving, the 20mph limit probably applies.

Signs must inform drivers of their speed if there are no street lights.

Why did the Welsh Government introduce 20mph speed limits?

To reduce collisions and injuries on the roads.
By reducing injuries, the pressure on the SNS should decrease.
Encourage greener transportation methods such as walking and cycling.
Better health and well-being.
General safety on the streets.

Wales was actually one of the first countries in the world to turn restricted roads into 20mph zones.

However, in 2024, the public had the opportunity to say whether they approve of the changes.

UK speed limit rules

IMPORTANT: The speed limit is maximum.

In urban areas in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, the speed limit for all engines is 30 mph.

Except for Wales, the speed limit in these areas is 32 km/h.

Although local councils can set their own speed limits, there must be clear signage.

On motorways and single and dual carriageways, speed limits vary depending on the type of engine.

Cars, motorcycles, car-derived vans, and dual-purpose vehicles can typically be driven at a higher speed limit than larger vehicles such as buses, trucks, coaches, and motorhomes.