Speed Limits in the UK: Know the Laws

For many behind the wheel, it may seem obvious what the speed limit is, but some drivers still need help knowing the difference between triangular and circular signs.

It’s vital to know speed limits along particular stretches of road else motorists will run the risk of racking up points on their licences.

A spokesperson for Road Angel said: “There is a difference between triangular and circular signs on the road – only a circle sign tells you the absolute maximum speed at which you can drive.

“If you get caught out for speeding, you risk paying a £100 fine and three points on your licence at the very minimum. You may be offered a speed awareness course, but this still takes four hours to complete and costs at least £75.

“To avoid these hefty penalties, get to know what the speed limit signs mean and look for other identifiers such as street lights to know what speed to drive at. It’s also important to note that although there is a set speed limit, you must adjust how you drive according to weather conditions, other road users, and potential hazards along the stretch of road.”

“Stay safe on the roads by knowing the right speed to drive at and avoid these strict penalties given out for speeding.”

There are two types of speed limit signs that drivers need to be clear on their specific meanings – triangular and circular.

Speed signs in a triangle shape mean the driving speed limit is advisory, not an order. These triangular signs warn drivers of upcoming hazards where their speed should be reduced – like going around a tight bend.

Although the triangular signs will typically read, for example, ‘max speed 30mph’, this does not mean drivers legally have to drive at 30mph. It is an advisory speed as there is an upcoming potentially dangerous stretch of road.

However, circular signs that identify the speed limit for the road are a legal order. Any speed limit seen in a red circle sign is mandatory to limit and displays the maximum speed drivers can travel along that stretch of road.

The Highway Code clarifies that speed limits are maximum for drivers, but it doesn’t mean driving at the speed limit is always safe.

Motorists should always know when to reduce their speed – such as when the road layout has a potential hazard (like a tight bend), any bad road conditions (such as potholes), when other users like pedestrians, horse riders and cyclists, weather conditions and nighttime driving are sharing the road.

Streetlights are also used as an identifier for the speed limit in that particular area. A stretch of road with no speed limit signs will be found in a built-up urban area with streetlights, and the maximum speed limit here will always be 30mph.

The national speed limit for single-carriageway roads is 60mph, whereas dual-carriageway highways and motorways have a speed limit of 70mph.

Drivers can be hit with serious penalties if caught speeding – a minimum fine of £100 and three points on the licence.

The Highway Code outlines that new drivers who have passed their tests within two years will have their driving licence withdrawn if six or more penalty points have been handed out to them.

Some drivers caught speeding may be offered to attend a speed awareness course, but only if they haven’t been seen in the past three years or it’s their first driving offence.

The cost of the speed awareness course differs on location, but it’s around £75 – £90 for the four hours.

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