70 mph Speed Limit at 60!

 

Introduction of the 70mph Speed Limit on British Roads

60 years ago, on 22 December 1965, the UK government introduced a temporary maximum speed limit of 70 mph (112 km/h) on previously unrestricted roads, including motorways. Initially introduced for a trial period, it was intended to reduce accidents.

Before the mid-1960s, many UK roads, especially motorways, had no national maximum speed limit. Drivers could legally go as fast as conditions allowed, and this was the legal situation on motorways for several years after the M1 opened in 1959.

However,after a series of serious motorway crashes in 1965, particularly in foggy conditions, the UK government decided to act to improve road safety.

The trial limit was initially planned for four months, but as data was collected and analysed, it was extended several times through 1966 as the authorities evaluated its effects.

Following research showing a reduction in casualties during the experimental period, the then Minister of Transport made the 70 mph limit permanent in 1967.

In 1977/1978, the broader National Speed Limit system was formalised, keeping 70 mph on motorways and dual carriageways and setting 60 mph on single carriageways — arrangements that largely persist today.

The principal reason for introducing the 70 mph limit in 1965 was road safety. Motorway crashes, especially under poor visibility, were increasing, and studies at the time suggested that capping top speeds would reduce the number and severity of collisions.