Lawyer explains why some speed limit signs are different colours and says 'grey area'
A legal expert has revealed why some speed limit signs have different colours. Green speed limit signs have been popping up across the UK - and are a "grey area".
That is according to Daniel ShenSmith, a qualified barrister and YouTuber, explained the meaning of these unusual signs on his channel after fans sent him pictures asking for clarification.
Unlike standard signs, which feature the mph figure encircled by a red border, these versions have the number surrounded by a green circle with the words "advisory speed limit" written across a white background. According to Daniel, these signs are a form of traffic calming measure often used in busy areas near schools or residential zones to encourage drivers to slow down.
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However, they are merely "advisory" and do not enforce a new speed limit, often displayed next to or underneath normal red signs. For instance, on a road with a standard 30mph limit, a sign may advise drivers to travel at 20mph instead.
Daniel clarified: "I cannot find anything in law to say that a green-bordered sign is enforceable. It has to be a red, circular border to be an enforceable speed limit."
"I've done a little bit of research into this and they seem to be popping up in various places like schools to calm the traffic...which is never a bad thing."
However, motorists should be cautious as driving too slowly can also land them in trouble.
If you slow down excessively or unexpectedly, disrupting traffic or causing an accident, you could face a fine since these signs are not enforcing a lower limit.
This warning follows recent alerts about a £410 "stealth tax" that could transform everyday cars into "luxury vehicles".