A new 20 mph speed limit has been imposed in parts of London in a major drive to reduce the number of road accidents in the capital.
The new rules which will be ‘actively imposed’ by the police will come into force on the 20th Islington and Camden where all roads are affected by the speed limit. Other areas have placed the limit of 20 mph on residential roads which included Southwark and Haringley.
Amongst other groups, cyclists have welcomed the news. CEO of London City Cycling Campaign, Ashok Sinha said that her organisation had historically campaigned for lower speed limits to cut down on the number of cycling accidents in the capital. She said: “We welcome the City of London and Transport for London’s steps to reduce road danger in the heart of the capital.”
City Council representative, Michael Welbank said that it is important that London city maintains its position as an ‘international business hub’ and that its streets need to be safe for all that use them including drivers, pedestrians, cyclists as well as ‘wanderers and dreamers’.
Research Underway To measure Impact Of Speed Limit Change
Research being undertaken is said to be ‘comprehensive’ and will take three years to complete. Within the studies there will be investigations as to the effectiveness of the new speed limit; looking at how the change in speed will influence casualties, collisions and air quality and whether or not people will change their mode of transport as a result.
Green MP Caroline Lucas asked whether or not MPs had considered whether or not to make 20 mph the default speed limit. In response, Robert Goodwill, Transport Secretary said that there were no plans to do this. He said: “The research will also consider air quality, best practice, road users’ perceptions and effects on the quality of the environment, as well as relevant research from other countries.” He added that local authorities are the ones who are best placed to set the speed limits for their areas and that they are able to consider the views of the community.
Claiming Compensation For A Road accident
If you have been involved in a road accident as a pedestrian, a cyclists or a driver and the accident was not your fault then you could be eligible to make a personal injury compensation claim. Motor Injury Lawyers successfully help victims of road accidents to receive the maximum amount of compensation. Areas which already imposed the 20 mph speed limit are they are entitled to. Call us for more information and to tell us about your circumstances on 0800 808 7733 or complete an online claim form available on this website.