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Difficulty: MediumSpeed Limits on Motorways

While driving on a motorway, you approach a roadworks section where temporary signs display the number 40 inside a red circle on a yellow backing board. What does this speed limit indicate?

  1. A
    It is an advisory speed recommendation that applies only when workers are visible on the carriageway
  2. It is a legally enforceable maximum speed limit that must not be exceeded at any timeAnswer
  3. C
    It is a minimum speed requirement designed to keep traffic moving steadily through the narrow lanes
  4. D
    It is a restriction that applies solely to heavy goods vehicles and vehicles towing trailers

Answer

It is a legally enforceable maximum speed limit that must not be exceeded at any time
In the UK Highway Code, signs with a red circle give mandatory orders. A speed limit displayed inside a red circle—even when placed temporarily on a yellow backing board through motorway roadworks—is legally enforceable at all times, 24 hours a day, regardless of whether workers are actively present.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the regulatory shape and border of the sign
The sign features a circular shape with a red border
Under the UK Highway Code, circular signs with a red border give mandatory instructions and prohibitions that are legally enforceable.
2
Determine the application of the temporary roadworks limit
The 40 mph limit applies to all passing vehicles at all hours
Roadworks speed limits remain mandatory 24 hours a day, even if no work is visibly taking place, due to narrowed lanes, contraflows, or temporary barriers.

Key Concept

Mandatory temporary speed limits at motorway roadworks
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Speed Limits on Motorways

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