Motorists using Midlands motorways are being warned that they can still face fines and penalty points even when driving below 60mph, particularly where temporary speed limits are in force. The warning follows reports of drivers being punished for ignoring 50mph restrictions on the M42 at Water Orton, where HS2 viaduct works are ongoing.
BirminghamLive has been informed of drivers receiving penalty points for exceeding the temporary limit, though West Midlands Police refused to share details of fines when a freedom of information request was lodged. This theoretically means drivers could be punished as soon as they hit 51mph on that stretch.
Temporary limits are legally binding
Variable speed limits and roadworks schemes are a common source of confusion, but the message from authorities is clear: these are not advisory limits. They are the legal speed limit until stated otherwise. On smart motorways, traffic is often slowed during heavy congestion, incidents, or roadworks, and digital gantries display limits such as 60, 50, or 40.
This is particularly relevant in the West Midlands, where smart motorway systems are in place, meaning the speed limit can change at a moment's notice. Roadworks schemes are also times when drivers can be caught out or punished for deliberately ignoring lower speeds.
M6 peak-time gantries
On the M6 at peak times, digital gantries routinely display 60, 50, or 40mph limits. These are legally enforceable, and cameras do operate. Some drivers either misunderstand this or ignore the warnings, perhaps thinking they are unlikely to be caught, but enforcement is active.
The warning serves as a reminder that slowing down to 55 or 60mph is not enough when a temporary limit is in place. Drivers must comply with the exact speed displayed, as these restrictions are implemented for safety reasons.
The speed limit on the motorway can change, and it is not always 70mph. Drivers need to pay attention to digital gantries and signs, especially on smart motorway sections where limits can change without warning.
