Thousands of drivers in the West Midlands have faced fines after falling foul of motorway rules regarding temporary speed limits. The confusion often arises on smart motorways like the M6, where digital gantries display variable limits.
Understanding Variable Speed Limits
These limits, which can drop from the national 70mph to 60, 50, or 40mph depending on traffic or incidents, are mandatory, not advisory. However, many motorists remain unsure and ignore them, risking penalties.
Variable speed cameras enforce these limits at specific locations. Theoretically, driving at 51mph in a 50mph zone could result in a fine, though police may sometimes overlook minor exceedances. This is not guaranteed, and drivers take a risk.
Hotspots for Fines
On the M6, drivers are most frequently caught between junctions 7 and 8 near Great Barr and between the M54 exit slip road near Wolverhampton and junction 10 for Walsall. Thousands have been fined at these sections in recent years.
Similarly, reduced limits for roadworks, such as the 50mph restriction on the M42 at Water Orton due to HS2 viaduct works, have led to fines. West Midlands Police did not confirm this in response to a freedom of information request.
Motorists are advised to always comply with displayed speed limits to avoid penalties and ensure safety.
