Several accidents & numerous near misses have occurred but
not reported, masking the severity of the situation and the dangers
to citizens.
The unlit lane on the single track part of Smithy Lane currently
has a 60 MPH speed limit on single track lane that has blind
bends
This ePetition ran from 22/11/2019 to 08/05/2020 and has now finished.
103 people signed this ePetition.
The setting of local speed limits is evidence-led and represents the characteristics of the surrounding area. This in turn helps drivers assess what is a safe speed to travel, and encourages self-compliance.
The national speed limit section on Smithy Lane reflects the rural characteristics of the surrounding area with reduced residential and commercial aspects. However, as with all maximum limits, this does not mean it is a safe to travel at such speed. As stated in the Highway Code, drivers are required to adjust their behaviour appropriately taking into consideration the road, traffic and weather conditions at the time. This includes on single track lanes and bends.
To ensure any new road safety measures have the greatest impact, we focus on locations with a proven road safety issue. This is mainly determined by the number of reported injury accidents at a particular location. We also target schemes that help improve the wider highway network.
We have assessed the road safety record and contacted the police
regarding the speed limit on this road section. As there are no
recorded injury incidents along here within the past 5 years we are
unable to justify reducing the current speed limit along Smithy
Lane.
As with the majority of roads throughout the county, there will be
an element of incidents present which do not result in injury and,
therefore, are not notified to the Police. However, in such
instances no information is available to determine the causal
factors involved. These could relate to an individual driver error,
medical episodes or mechanical failure.
We understand that you are disappointed with our decision, but we hope our reasoning is clear.