Don’t take it to the LIMIT
Because professional drivers are behind the wheel for the majority of their working day, statistically they are more at risk of being involved in a road accident – or being the cause of one. Over 2,900 people were killed on roads in the UK in 2007.
That works out at 8 people a day.
Know your limits
Whilst there really is no such thing as a totally safe speed, by cutting speed, driving defensively and observing speed limits we can all play a part in reducing road casualties. Of course, when it comes to speed limits, we all think we know them. Or do we?
For instance, did you know that following changes in the law in 2008, the practical speed limit for goods vehicles on motorways is 60mph? Or that, dependent on vehicle weight, different speed limits apply to most Transit-type vans and car-derived vans on single carriageway roads?
Vans
Vans with a maximum laden weight (Gross Vehicle Weight) of over 2 tonnes (2,000 kg) are restricted to lower speed limits on single carriageways and dual carriageways. Vans with a maximum laden weight (Gross Vehicle Weight) of over 7.5 tonnes (7,500 kg) are also restricted to lower speed limits on motorways.
Below are some examples of the speed limits applying to vehicles of differing weights. However, drivers should check the Gross Vehicle Weight and ‘plated’ weight of their van/goods vehicle to ensure that they are aware of which speed limits apply.
Goods vehicles
Following changes in legislation, from 1 January 2008 the speed limit for goods vehicles on UK motorways was set at 60mph. However, because it’s usually the most fuel efficient speed, most speed limiters are set at 56mph.
With effect from 1 January 2008, goods vehicles registered since 2005 and many older vehicles, are required to be fitted with speed limiters. This is in addition to those that have been fitted with speed limiters for some years, such as goods vehicles used for international work. Some older goods vehicles remain unaffected by the change.
Speed: some key information
• Accident statistics show that at 40mph, nine out of ten children hit by a car either die or suffer serious injuries. At 20mph nine out of ten survive.
• Never rush. Ring ahead if you’re late – and take it easy.
• Drivers should be aware that the braking distances and handling characteristics of all vehicles vary considerably depending on your load and your speed. Your driving style should be adapted accordingly.
• Obey speed limits. Check your speedo.
• Don’t always drive to the limit. For instance, on some derestricted country roads, the 60mph limit may be too high for safety.
• Drive smart. Aggressive driving on urban roads and in built up areas
rarely saves much journey time. Smoother driviving will save fuel and
could save someone’s life.
