Do you know your speed limits?

Take this quick test to see if you know the speed limits for cars on UK roads.

Over half of all UK motorists don’t know the correct speed limit for different types of roads in the UK, according to Direct Line research, in conjunction with Brake, the national Road Safety Charity.

When asked what the limits are for both single and dual carriageways, 58 per cent of the motorists surveyed got it wrong. Can you do better?

What is the national single carriageway speed limit for cars?

1. 40mph
2. 60mph
3. 70mph
4. 80mph
   



How about the national speed limit (outside a built-up area) for a car on a dual carriageway?

1. 60mph
2. 70mph
3. 80mph
4. 90mph
   



Do you know what the

motorway speed limit is?

1. 60mph
2. 70mph
3. 80mph
4. 90mph
   



What is the usual speed limit for built-up areas?

1. 20mph
2. 30mph
3. 40mph
4. 50mph
   

If you are towing a caravan on the motorway, what speed should you drive below?

1. 50mph
2. 60mph
3. 70mph
4. 80mph

So, do you know your limits?

The correct answer in each case is B.

If you answered mostly A, you are a: Slowcoach Slowcoaches often cause tailbacks and irritate other motorists by sticking to a speed 10mph or more below the authorised limit! There’s no harm in driving a bit faster, as long as traffic allows and you’re within the correct speed limit.

Mostly B, you are an: Honest Citizen

You know your speed limits. Well done. Not only are you a law-abiding citizen, you are also helping to keep the roads safe.

Mostly C, you are a: Pushing it

You are breaking the speed limit and the law. Slow the pace a little and be aware of the speed signs and limits.

Mostly D, you are a: Speed Freak

Is that the sound of a police siren, or the click of a speed camera? You are driving an average of 20mph over the speed limit and are in danger of causing an accident.

Seriously, remember that driving fast is dangerous. If a pedestrian is hit at 20mph, there is about a 97% chance of survival. At 30mph it’s 80%. Driving at higher speeds increases that risk. If you hit a pedestrian driving at 40mph in a 30mph zone, they have a 90% chance of being killed.

Swot up on speed limits and appropriate speeds by downloading Speed: Know Your Limits.

For a quick and easy car insurance quote, don’t forget Direct Line.

Related information

• Crash protocol
• Uninsured driver promise
• Comprehensive car insurance