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Have you seen these guidelines issued by the IAM with regards to speeding?

I have just been reading a local IAM bulletin that lists "new guidelines nationally introduced.” It does not indicate who issued the guidelines, but goes on to say that "These new guidelines have been signed up to by 37 police authorities so far (April 2011). " The guideline limits are: 42 in a 30mph zone, 53 in a 40 zone, 64 in a 50 zone, 75 in a 60 zone and 86 on motorways (and obviously dual carriageways). I expect that you are aware of this, but wonder how many other people are?

I would not of course wish to advocate driving to the new limits, but confess to having a poor regard for many of today's speed restrictions. There was a day long ago when sight of a speed limit provided a genuine and very useful warning of a real hazard. Not today. In my view, far too many spurious limits exist that result in the general disrespect shown by most drivers. How dangerous is that disrespect?

Asked on 16 June 2011 by KS, via email

Answered by Honest John
That's interesting. I checked with Peter Rodger, chief examiner of the IAM and these are the recommended limits for the offer of a speed awareness course. Go faster and you will probably get a court summons. Below are the old ACPO guidelines, with the caveat that they are not compulsory on any police officer as they can still report you for 31 in a 30 if they think it is dangerous in the circumstances.

Limit - Fixed Penalty - Summons
20 mph - 25 mph - 35 mph
30 mph - 35 mph - 50 mph
40 mph - 46 mph - 66 mph
50 mph - 57 mph - 76 mph
60 mph - 68 mph - 86 mph
70 mph - 79 mph - 96 mph

Fixed penalty: £60 fine, licence endorsed with three penalty points. Summons penalty: Magistrate’s discretion. Maximum of £1,000 fine plus £15 victims support, licence endorsed with a range of penalty points available, possible disqualification and compulsory re-testing.
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