More drivers could be speeding on Norfolk and Suffolk's rural roads, research shows
Nearly half of drivers surveyed admitted they'd driven faster than the 60mph limit last year
More drivers on Norfolk and Suffolk's rural roads could be breaking the 60mph speeding limit, according to new research.
Nearly half (48%) of the 3,000 drivers questioned in a RAC survey admitted they'd driven faster than the limit on country roads last year, matching the highest figure ever seen by the RAC in 2016.
Jonathan Clarkson, from the Road Safety Partnership, says there could still be a "hangover" from lockdown speeding:
'We did see a rise in speeding offences during the lockdown in 2020 so I'm wondering, from a certain minority of the motoring public, whether there is still a hangover from this time - and that's why people are admitting to breaking the speed limit.'
The 20mph limit
Figures also showed that nearly half of drivers who exceeded the speed limit in 20mph zones say it was due to thinking the limit is inappropriate for that particular road.
69% of respondents think motorists stick to 20mph limits when there is enforcement or traffic-calming measures in place, while 65% say speed camera warnings help them abide by the law.
Half (52%) say they would be opposed to additional 20mph limits being introduced in their local area. However, a similar proportion (48%) believe some 60mph limits on unclassified rural roads should be reduced.
Mr Clarkson added that the law isn't to be interpreted:
'It's not up to the motoring public to decide what they think, or don't think, what is the appropriate speed limit.'
'That is the sign's speed limit, and that is decided by the local highways authority. It's the speed limit for you to adhere to for you to stay on the right side of the law.'