§ Lord Stoddart of Swindonasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is the reason for lowering the speed limit from 50 mph to 40 mph on the elevated section of the M.4 motorway; and whether this is temporary or a permanent measure. [HL2469]
30WA
§ Lord WhittyThe accident record on the elevated section of the M.4 motorway is a cause of concern and, given the correlation between speed and accidents, this indicates a need to reduce the speed limit. The layout of this two-lane section of the M.4 is below current standards for a 50 mph limit. Combined with the number of accidents, this explains the reason for introducing a 40 mph limit on both carriageways. The London Accident Analysis Unit has estimated the likely accident savings to be about 20 personal injury accidents in a three-year period. The speed limit reduction will he permanent.