19-03-2023, 01:18 PM
Blanket application of 20 mph speed limits is ridiculous. Bedford council have recently done it in parts of the town. In most areas it is not monitored and therefore summarily and understandably ignored by most drivers. Once you get to the point where motorists pick and choose which limits to obey the slope is slippery. On the embankment the 20 mph limit (camera-enforced) is combined with a series of chicanes which interrupt traffic flow in both directions and lead to numerous highly dangerous games of 'chicken' with those who ignore the priorities and try to squeeze through before the approaching car. Driving along there at 5 or 6 in the morning by far the greatest risk is that a hotel might jump out in front of you, or perhaps that the river Ouse may suddenly change course. Meanwhile there are dreadfully dangerous streets littered with traffic hazards which fall outside the scheme. I objected to the plan and submitted scientific evidence refuting the council's claim that it was "good for the environment" and was of course completely ignored. Above all, motorists need to know where they stand. Much of Europe now has a broad range of very low speed limits in towns and you have to be constantly on your guard & noting down what the last sign said. There is much to be said for a standard limit (which we had) which motorists can assume applies as long as they are in town, unless told otherwise. Then plan road safety around it...