Speed limits

Speed limits are the maximum speed at which vehicles may legally travel. However, you should always reduce your speed when:

• the road layout or condition presents hazards, such as bends
• your are sharing the road with pedestrians and cyclists (particularly motorcyclists)
• weather conditions mean that it is safer to slow down
• you are driving at night – as it is harder to see other road users and possible obstructions.

Details of current national speed limits can be found at www.highwaycode.gov.uk/09.htm#103 (opens in a new window)

The faster you drive the longer it takes to stop. The distance it takes your vehicle to stop is affected by a number of things: tyres, brakes, road surface, driving ability and design and type of vehicle.

Details of stopping distances can be found at www.highwaycode.gov.uk/09.htm#105 (opens in a new window)

Any new speed limit, or any amendments to existing speed limits, requires a Traffic Regulation Order to be made. This involves a process of consultation and public advertisement which can take several months. 

Any objections received would then be considered by the Cabinet Member for Sustainable Communities. The Cabinet Member may resolve to amend the proposal, in which case it would be consulted upon again and re-advertised.  

Once approved, the necessary signs are ordered and arrangements made for them to be in place on a certain date to coincide with the date the Order comes into force. The Order is then enforceable by the Police.

The entire speed limit process from investigation to implementation can take between six and twelve months.

For general enquiries on the provision of speed limits please contact Call Derbyshire 08456 058 058