UK Speed Limits: How to Tell Even Without Signs

There are so many different road laws to remember that it can feel a little overwhelming, and speed limits are one of those things. There are different limits according to the roads you’re driving on, and even certain conditions can have an impact on your recommended speed. The good thing is that there are signs available to guide you. 

But what about when there aren’t any signs? There are some places where signage isn’t available, which means the speed limit might not always be obvious to you. It can make you a little nervous when you’re driving, but we’re here to lend you a hand and give you the advice you need to make speed decisions confidently. 

Why are Speed Limits Important? 

Speed limits are important because they reduce the risk of accidents on the road and ensure everyone is driving safely. It’s better for the environment, it can have a huge impact on the severity of accidents, and it means the roads suffer a little less from wear and tear. Essentially, speed limits are there for your safety and everyone else’s. 

What is the National Speed Limit?

The national speed limit sign is displayed via a white circle with a diagonal black stripe through it. You’ll see the sign on all national speed limit roads. Now, most people state that the national speed limit is 70mph, but this is actually incorrect. The national speed limit varies according to the type of road you’re driving on. 

Motorways are the roads that have a 70mph national speed limit. This tends to span across all of them, but you should be aware that smart motorways have their own speed signage. This can vary according to any accidents or delays on the road, so you need to keep an eye on them. The variable cameras mean speeds and lanes are under constant adjustment. 

Dual carriageways usually have a national speed limit of 70mph as well, but this is not always the case. Some areas and dual carriageways will have restrictions and lower limits for safety reasons, and there will be signs to alert you to this change. 

Single carriageways have a maximum limit of 60mph, and these are defined as a road without a central division between the flow of traffic. That means if you only see painted lines on the road between you and the other side, the speed limit is going to be 60mph. 

How to Check Speed Limits on the Road?

When there isn’t any signage for you to check the speed limit, there are a few things you can keep in mind when trying to figure out how fast you should drive. Of course, if your sat nav is up to date then it should have the limit for your road displayed on the screen, but you need to be able to assess the speed limits yourself as well. 

If you’re driving through busy residential areas, around schools, or near high streets, the speed limit normally goes down to 20mph. It’s there because there is a much smaller risk of fatalities after accidents, and it keeps pedestrians safer. In built-up areas and villages, you will find the speed limit is normally increased to 30mph – the regular streetlights help you to determine if you’re in one.

For country roads, you’ll find there is rarely any signage or lighting. This means that unless it is otherwise stated, the limit is 60mph instead. Of course, driving slower on these roads is recommended, especially at night, because there are more hazards. 40mph roads almost always have signage, so it’s best to stay slow until you see them. 

What Happens if You Get Caught Speeding?

Speeding is a serious offence, and if you get caught, then you are risking a fine and points on your license. You can take part in a speed awareness course if it’s your first offence or you meet certain conditions to get out of the points, but this isn’t always an option. Speeding kills, and it can come with a whole range of consequences.