DfT clarifies speed limits for courier drivers in vans
Date: 21 February 2008
The Department for Transport (DfT) has clarified the speed limits relating to van drivers including couriers and owner drivers on Britain's roads.
Vans and other goods vehicles not exceeding 7.5 tonnes must adhere to a 50mph speed limit on single carriageway roads (as opposed to 60mph for cars), and to 60mph on dual carriageways (70mph for cars).
Of course, where lower speed limits are signed, for example in built-up areas, courier drivers must stick to these.
The DfT points out that the main reason for lower speed limits for courier drivers in vans and other van drivers is because goods vehicles are designed to carry heavy loads, and that they generally take longer to slow down than a car travelling at the same speed.
However, there is one group of vans that does have the same speed limits as cars. These vans are derived from a car chassis and have a maximum laden weight of no more than two tonnes.
Vans that fall into this category are those that are similar to a Ford Fiesta van, a Vauxhall Corsa van or a Renault Clio van - with loads of around 0.5 tonnes.
Couriers using vans such as Ford Transits and other larger panel vans are required to stick to the lower speed limits.
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