Drivers on West Midlands motorways are receiving fines and penalty points even when travelling at speeds below 60mph. This highlights the importance of recognising and complying with variable speed limits displayed on digital gantries.
Variable speed limits, showing 60, 50, or 40 mph, are legally enforceable limits rather than advisory suggestions. Some drivers either misunderstand this or ignore the limits altogether. These speed reductions are typically implemented during heavy congestion, traffic incidents, or ongoing roadworks.
On the M6, peak-time traffic frequently results in lower speed limits, leading to thousands of drivers being penalised by cameras enforcing these variable limits over recent years. Similarly, on the M42 at Water Orton, motorists have been fined for exceeding the 50mph restrictions during HS2 viaduct construction works, with some drivers travelling over 50mph but under 60mph still receiving penalties.
READ MORE: A Tale of Two Neighbourhoods: Wealth and Poverty Divided by Mere Streets in Birmingham
This serves as a clear reminder to all motorists that slowing down to 55 or 60mph is insufficient if a lower speed limit is displayed. Compliance with temporary speed restrictions is essential for safety and to avoid fines and penalty points.