The Driving & Vehicle standards Agency (DVSA) has issued a reminder to fleet operators that speed limits imposed for HGV’s are set to increase across England and Wales from April 6th.
The national speed limit for HGV’s on single carriage ways will increase from 40mph to 50mph, and on dual carriage ways from 50mph to 60mph. However the increase to 60mph on dual carriage ways is purely in practice due to the 56mph limiter which will still be in place. These vehicle specific limits are also in place exclusively in England and Wales; Scotland and Northern Island speed limits are set by the devolved administrations and are therefore unaffected.
The Transport Minister Claire Perry describes the changes as the modernisation of outdated legislation, saying, “It is really important that speed limits for lorries reflect the needs of a modern transport network and improved vehicle technology”.
Perry went on to note that, “This change is about ensuring rules for lorry drivers’ speed limits are in line with other larger vehicles on our roads, creating a fairer and more proportionate system”.