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Why Managing Speed Matters

Speeding is a major contributor to road accidents, with one-third of fatal crashes involving excessive speed. Driving too fast not only endangers you but others, with the chances of survival drastically dropping for pedestrians hit at higher speeds.

For tips on driving, view all of our driving advisories here. 

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  • Note: This form is for corporate/business enquiries. For learner driving , please click here to visit the “Learn to Drive” part of our website and book lessons.
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Speeding affects others too.

A child hit at 20mph has a 90% chance of survival. At 30mph, they have a 50% chance of dying, while at 40mph their chances of surviving are near zero. Yet drivers still speed.

Department for Transport (DfT) figures show that in free-flowing 30mph zones, 45% of van drivers speed, with 5% driving over 40mph. On motorways, 47% of van drivers exceed the 70mph limit, with 10% breaking 80mph.

The minimum penalty for speeding is a £100 fine and 3 penalty points, but if you’re speeding and involved in a crash resulting in serious injury or death, you face a prison sentence of up to 14 years and an unlimited fine.

Speed Limits You Should Know

  • 20mph Zones: Common in urban areas or near schools.
  • 30mph Roads: Usually residential areas with streetlights; no repeated signage.
  • 40mph Roads: Vary from urban streets to dual carriageways; signage provided.
  • 50-60mph: Applies to single carriageways and vehicles towing trailers.
  • 70mph: Motorway limit for most vehicles unless towing or over 12m in length.

Not sure what speed you should do? Check the speed limits for your vehicle at www.gov.uk/speed-limits

Driving safely: expert tips

Adapt to conditions:

  • Wet weather: Reduce speed by 30%; stopping distances can double.
  • Consider road hazards like bends, ice, or potholes.

Smooth driving:

  • Maintain steady speed with gentle steering and braking.
  • Keep at least a 2-second gap from the vehicle ahead.

Summer driving:

  • Plan routes to avoid peak traffic.
  • Stay hydrated and check vehicle fluids.
  • Be alert for cyclists and pedestrians.

Stay awake and alert:

  • Fatigue causes 1 in 5 accidents. Signs include yawning, heavy eyes, or lane drifting.
  • Avoid driving during peak fatigue hours (2–6 AM, 2–4 PM), and take breaks to prevent microsleeps, which can result in dangerous consequences.

Driving Advisory: Speeding

For more in-depth tips and detailed recommendations, download the full PDF guide. Stay informed and drive safely!

Download The Full Driving Advisory

Featured Courses

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Driver Risk Assessments

Our On Road Driver Assessment is a half-day course that focuses on assessing a driver’s expertise in managing the high-risk environment of urban driving and reducing the likelihood of being involved in a preventable driving incident.

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E-Learning Modules

Our RED E-Learner modules are an integral part of our blended training programmes, providing regular content and training reminders to drivers of their responsibilities.

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RED has Fleet Driver Training Instructors throughout the UK which means that we can handle your driver training requirements as a one-stop-shop. We are geared up to help PLCs, local governments, universities, charities and privately-owned businesses. Whether you are part of a multi-national business or an SME, we have a service to meet your needs.

Give us a call to discuss your Driver Risk Management or Fleet Driver training objectives.

We can also offer our guidance if you are looking to take your first steps into managing road risk within your organisation.