This idea of 20mph zones/limits is getting monotonous as opposed to boring. I Don't believe that reducing the limit to 20mph will actually save lives/reduce injury, because I can cite many real instances of actual deaths under that speed, reduced damage yes, but deaths/injuries no. Low speed impacts can cause a cyclist/pedestrian to go under the vehicle as opposed to being pushed aside as is if a higher speed. As I spent 17 years dealing with accident scenes as an accident investigator I think I am qualified to make this observation. I cannot agree with some interpretation of statistics that denies that the accident rate has gone up, such as in the experimental 20mph zone in Portsmouth.
The blanket 20mph speed limit/Zone encourages drivers minds to wander, it makes conscientious drivers worry about their speedometer at the expense of their surroundings, it gives pedestrians a false sense of security, it encourages drivers to ignore the limit in areas within the zone where a higher speed is safe to do so thus encouraging contempt for the limit overall. I am afraid that the motorized vehicle is here for the foreseeable future whether we like it or not.
J P
Ex taffic cop slams 20 zones
