Van Drivers, do you really know the speed limits?

22/01/2025
Van speed limits are 10mph less than standard cars on single carriageways (50mph limit) and dual carriageways (60mph limit), unless otherwise stated.
Police Scotland Safety Cameras continue to detect a number of vans (defined as goods vehicles not exceeding 7.5 tonnes max. laden weight) travelling in excess of the stated speed limits and an increase in the number of drivers who when detected by a safety camera state they thought the van they were driving had the same speed limit as a car.
Although this is evident across the country, two roads in particular highlight the issue. In 2024 on the A9 there were 1174 vans detected travelling in excess of the speed limit of 60 mph with the highest offence recorded at 93mph. On the A90 there were 2003 van offences with the highest speed recorded being 91mph in the 60mph.
Eric Dunion Manager Police Scotland Safety Camera Unit says: “We enforce along the A9 and A90 using both average speed cameras and mobile enforcement vans. It is disappointing to see the number of vans detected on these dual carriageways, and the high speeds recorded which are completely unacceptable. Many of the offenders are professional drivers and require their driving licence for their employment, we routinely receive calls to the office where drivers state they didn’t know about the reduced speed limits for this type of vehicle. If you are unsure on the speeds for your vehicle, I urge you to check the vehicles V5 and consult the DVLA website – it is your licence and your responsibility.."
Gordon Dickson Inspector Road Policing Tayside says: "Along with our safety camera unit we routinely patrol along these dual carriageways to make the roads safer for all road users."
ENDS