The implementation of a 20mph default speed limit in Wales has led to a decrease in the number of road crashes in the region, according to newly released figures. The data reveals that there were approximately 100 fewer people killed or seriously injured on roads with 20mph and 30mph speed limits in the 12 months following the introduction of the 20mph default speed limit compared to the previous year. Over the specified period from October 2023 to the end of September 2024, the number of collisions decreased by 15%, with 20 fatal collisions, 218 classified as serious, and 492 as slight. However, it is important to note that collisions can result in multiple casualties.
Although there has been a decrease in the number of casualties over the 12-month period, it is considered too early to attribute this reduction solely to the change in the national default speed limit. Statisticians suggest that at least three years of data are required to draw any definitive conclusions. Additionally, the data shows a seasonal variation, with quarters two and three historically experiencing a higher collision rate compared to the other two quarters of the year. Therefore, caution is advised when comparing different quarters against each other.
Recent statistics indicate that the number of casualties on roads with 20mph and 30mph speed limits combined during the third quarter of 2024 (from July to September) was the lowest since records began in Wales. In the 12 months following the implementation of the default speed limit, 398 individuals were killed or seriously injured on these roads, marking a reduction of 100 compared to the same period in the previous year. Welsh councils are now contemplating reverting some roads from 20mph back to 30mph, with all 22 councils in the country considering this option at varying paces, although no changes have been made yet.
Transport and North Wales Cabinet Secretary, Ken Skates, expressed optimism regarding the recently released figures, describing them as “encouraging.” He highlighted that the number of collisions on Welsh roads is currently at its lowest level for this quarter. Skates acknowledged that the full impact of the policy change will take several years to materialise fully, but the positive data for the current quarter is a promising sign. He emphasised the importance of adapting speed limits where appropriate, based on local conditions and safety considerations.
The Welsh Government has been proactive in listening to feedback on the 20mph default speed limit policy and has empowered local authorities to make adjustments where deemed safe. Despite the positive trends observed in the data, ongoing evaluation and monitoring will be critical to assessing the long-term effectiveness of the speed limit change. As the road safety landscape continues to evolve, the Welsh authorities are committed to making evidence-based decisions to enhance safety for all road users.
In conclusion, the initial findings following the introduction of the 20mph default speed limit in Wales show promising results in reducing road crashes and casualties. While it is still early to draw definitive conclusions, the decrease in collisions and casualties is a positive development. Continued monitoring, evaluation, and collaboration between local councils and the government will be essential to ensuring the long-term success of road safety initiatives in the region.