Over 100,000 drivers caught breaking speed limit in Wales
- Since the 20mph speed limit's implementation in September 2023, a total of 112,699 speeding offences were recorded in Wales.
- The highest speed recorded was 89mph in January 2025, while the average speed among offenders typically was 28mph.
- Despite some drivers supporting the limit for safety reasons, others express frustration about its necessity and enforcement challenges.
In Wales, the implementation of a default 20mph speed limit on restricted roads began in September 2023, leading to widespread changes in driving behavior and enforcement involved in reducing road casualties. The updated regulations resulted in the collection of data from GoSafe, which revealed that over 112,000 offences had occurred by March 2025, with the highest recorded speed being 89mph in January 2025. The number of offences peaked during the summer of 2024, with almost 8,000 speeding incidents reported in August alone. By March 2025, the offences decreased with about 4,950 in north Wales and 4,128 in south and mid Wales. The introduction of the speed limit aimed to enhance road safety, as studies indicated lower speed limits correlate with a reduced number of traffic accidents and fatalities. Despite this initiative, opinions among drivers remain divided. Some believe the limit is unnecessary, while others argue it is essential for improving public safety. Various perspectives reflect the complexities surrounding the new legislation, with drivers like Georgie Bennett expressing that the 20mph limit makes navigation through urban areas challenging, citing worsening traffic. Supporters of the limit point to findings that suggest fewer deaths and serious injuries in areas primarily regulated by 20mph. Luca Straker from road safety charity Brake reinforced this by stating that the evidence is clear: lower speed limits lead to fewer casualties. However, enforcement was initially suspended, allowing drivers some adjustment time, which contributed to the high number of offences recorded. Following public backlash and the review of the new legislation, some councils are contemplating reverting to 30mph limits on specific roads while adapting to the 20mph default. Enforcement measures commenced in January 2024, with roadside teams monitoring compliance and issuing penalties to drivers exceeding 26mph in 20mph zones. Despite the enforcement, drivers continue to express their frustrations, with many failing to adhere to the new limits, highlighting the ongoing challenges of changing driving culture in Wales.