“What’s the point?” of the forthcoming 20mph speed limit in Brighton and Hove if speed cameras don’t work, asks The Argus (March 23).
I think it would have been great if The Argus had, instead, asked some questions along the following lines: • What’s the point of a policy which addresses the fact that pedestrians have a 90% chance of surviving a car crash at around 20mph or below, but less than a 50% chance of surviving an impact of about 30mph or above?
• What’s the point of the UK having speed limits in residential and urban roads which are 60% higher than our neighbours in Northern Europe – where rates of walking and cycling are much higher, and casualty rates are much lower than in the UK?
• What’s the point of a policy to change perception of road danger, which currently discourages walking and cycling – two of the most important kinds of physical activity?
• What’s the point of a policy that should help cut the £15 billion which road crashes cost the UK each year?
• What’s the point of a policy which, according to the World Health Organisation, will reduce average traffic speeds and have positive effects on health outcomes (eg, by reducing respiratory problems associated with car emissions)?
• What’s the point of a policy which polls show are supported by the majority of residents?
• And what’s the point of assuming that all motorists are law-breakers, who don’t think that any of the above points are more important than their continuing ability to drive at 30mph?
Stephen Young, chair, Living Streets, Brighton and Hove group
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel