20mph speed limits cut serious injuries by 34% in London
New research from TfL reveals that implementing 20mph speed limits across London boroughs has led to a significant 34% reduction in people killed or seriously injured on the city’s roads. This comprehensive study, analysing over 150 schemes between 1989 and 2013, underscores the life-saving potential of lower speed limits in urban areas.
The data indicates a 40% decrease in fatalities, dropping from 15 to 9, compared to a general trend of a 7% reduction across borough roads. Child safety improvements are particularly noteworthy, with a 75% reduction in child fatalities and a 50% decrease in child casualties. Overall, collisions and casualties on borough roads saw reductions of 35% and 36% respectively, surpassing the background trend of a 12% decrease.
These findings align with the Mayor’s Vision Zero initiative, aiming to eliminate all deaths and serious injuries from London’s transport network. TfL’s analysis confirms that 20mph zones contribute to safer streets without adversely affecting air quality or journey times, and they encourage more walking and cycling.
Currently, 21 out of London’s 33 boroughs have adopted a default 20mph speed limit, and over half of the city’s roads now operate under this limit. TfL anticipates further expansion of these zones, supported by £87.6 million in Local Implementation Planning funding for 2025-26, dedicated to introducing additional 20mph areas and other safety measures.
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