Speed limits define the maximum legal speed for a road under ideal conditions. They carry no implication that driving at that speed is appropriate in all circumstances. A wet road surface, reduced visibility in fog, the presence of cyclists or pedestrians, a heavy or uneven load, driver fatigue, or an unfamiliar vehicle can all mean that a significantly lower speed is the only responsible choice.

Professional drivers are expected to adapt their speed continuously to conditions rather than fix on the posted limit as a target and understand that travelling below the speed limit is frequently the correct and responsible choice. Employers should reinforce this expectation explicitly and ensure that drivers are not subject to commercial pressures that discourage appropriate speed adjustment.

As a side note, many van drivers are unaware their vehicles are subject to lower speed limits than cars, especially on rural roads and dual carriageways.

That means, even though they believe they are within the speed limit, not only could they be exceeding what other drivers on that road believe is a ‘safe speed’ they could actually be significantly over the speed limit for their vehicle which could result in penalty points and a fine.