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Difficulty: Very hardSpeed Limits on Motorways

Match each specific motorway driving scenario with its correct legal speed limit application under the UK Highway Code.

  • A solo motorcycle passing a matrix sign displaying '50' with flashing amber lights.Retains a legal limit of 70 mph, though a lower maximum speed is advised.
  • A standard passenger car passing an overhead gantry displaying '40' within a red circle.Subject to a legally enforceable temporary maximum limit of 40 mph.
  • A heavy goods vehicle (exceeding 7.5 tonnes maximum laden weight) on an unrestricted motorway.Subject to a permanent maximum limit of 60 mph due to its vehicle class.
  • A car towing a small trailer passing a gantry displaying '70' within a red circle.Must not exceed 60 mph, as vehicle-specific limits override higher displayed mandatory limits.

Answer

The scenarios match their respective legal speed limit applications, emphasizing that lower vehicle-specific limits always override higher gantry limits, and distinguishing between advisory and mandatory signals.
Each match correctly aligns the specific vehicle configuration and signage with UK Highway Code legislation. Crucially, it identifies that lower vehicle limits supersede higher posted limits, and strictly separates advisory signals from mandatory red-circle limits.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Evaluate the signal type for the motorcycle scenario.
The flashing amber lights with '50' indicate an advisory limit. The motorcycle retains its 70 mph legal maximum.
To distinguish between advisory (amber) and mandatory (red circle) signals.
2
Evaluate the signal type for the passenger car scenario.
The red circle with '40' indicates a temporary mandatory limit that legally overrides the national speed limit.
To confirm understanding of legally enforceable variable speed limits on smart motorways.
3
Determine the permanent limit for the heavy goods vehicle.
The HGV is restricted to 60 mph permanently due to its weight class exceeding 7.5 tonnes.
To assess knowledge of vehicle-specific speed limits on unrestricted motorways.
4
Determine the overriding limit for the towing vehicle passing a '70' mandatory sign.
The vehicle must not exceed 60 mph, as its specific towing restriction takes precedence over the displayed 70 mph limit.
To test the critical rule that the lowest applicable limit (vehicle class vs. signage) must always be obeyed.

Key Concept

Hierarchy and application of motorway speed limits regarding vehicle classification, advisory signals, and mandatory variable signs.
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Topics

Speed Limits on Motorways

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