UK speed limits for cars could be reduced under new proposals - but HGVs could drive faster

Speed limits for motorists in Scotland could be reduced, while HGVs might see an increase in their maximum allowed speed, following new proposals set out by the Scottish Government. A consultation has been launched to discuss these significant changes to the country's speed regulations.

If the proposals are accepted, car drivers would have to adjust to a lower speed limit of 50mph on single carriageways, a decrease from the current 60mph. Meanwhile, HGVs over 7.5 tonnes could benefit from increased speed limits, going up to 50mph from 40mph on single carriageways and from 50mph to 60mph on dual carriageways, reports Birmingham Live.

Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop commented on the matter, stating: "Evidence from the National Speed Management Review indicates that revising speed limits could lead to a significant reduction in the number of injury collisions on our roads while maintaining journey times and enhancing journey time reliability."

She further emphasised the importance of road safety, adding: "We must never lose sight of the fact that one death on our roads is one too many. These proposed changes represent a vital step towards achieving national casualty reduction targets, and I urge everyone to take part in the consultation and help shape the future of road safety in Scotland."

Scottish Conservative North East MSP Douglas Lumsden slammed the plans as "a ludicrous measure which seeks to demonise motorists in rural areas who rely on using a car". "Unlike the central belt, the north and north east don't have the luxury of motorways connecting locations across the region," he said.

In contrast, Martin Reid, policy director for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland at the Road Haulage Association, said: "The 50mph trial on the A9 has resulted in a reduction in risky overtaking with a resultant improvement in safety, backed up by a decade of data from roads in England and Wales."