Speed limit of 20mph 'reduced crashes and deaths'

The introduction of 20mph limits on London's roads reduced the number of deaths and injuries between 1989 and 2013, according to a report commissioned by Transport for London (TfL).

Across all 157 schemes on borough roads, there was a 34% decrease in fatal or serious casualties - although other safety features in the control group indicated it would have fallen by 15% anyway.

Walking and cycling commissioner Will Norman said the new analysis was "compelling" and "shows clearly that lowering speeds is saving lives."

But Callum McGoldrick, from the TaxPayers' Alliance, said blanket 20mph zones "risk punishing responsible drivers without delivering clear value for money."

Last year, the Licensed Taxi Drivers Association branded the widening of 20mph zones "devastating" to black cab drivers.

In London, 5% of roads are operated by TfL with the rest managed by London's 32 boroughs and the City of London.

The 20mph speed limit was introduced across the central London Congestion Charging zone in March 2020 although more than half of boroughs now implement the same policy, TfL said.

The authors of the report recognised the implementation of 20mph schemes "was not the sole cause of improved road safety in this time".

The analysis also showed a 35% reduction of all collisions - from 2,560 to 1,715 - although the control group showed a drop of 12% would have occurred anyway.

Deaths fell from 15 to nine and the number of children killed dropped from four to one.

No change was observed in motorcycle-related fatalities.

Mr McGoldrick added: "Slowing down traffic across entire areas can clog up roads, delay journeys and hit productivity, especially for tradespeople and small businesses.

"Rather than heavy-handed restrictions, councils and TfL should focus on targeted measures at accident blackspots, not treating every motorist like a menace."

Mr Norman added: "Every death or serious injury on our roads is one too many. Slower speeds not only protect the most vulnerable, they also help create safer, more welcoming streets, and are a vital part of building a safer London for everyone.

"The Mayor and I are proud that London is leading the way with bold, evidence-led action to reduce danger on our roads, and we will continue working to eliminate death and serious injury on the transport network as part of our vision zero goal."

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