An RAC investigation has documented over 30,000 motorists exceeding 20mph speed limits by at least 50 percent across the UK during the past year, based on Freedom of Information requests to police forces. Data revealed extreme individual cases, including drivers recorded at 89mph and 114mph in low-speed zones, highlighting widespread non-compliance despite the stated purposes of such restrictions.

Twenty-mile-per-hour limits have become standard in built-up areas across much of the UK, though these policies have generated both support and opposition from different groups. Official statistics show excessive speed contributed to approximately 185 deaths in 2024 and was a factor in the majority of fatal collisions, whilst government and enforcement advocates have responded with a road safety strategy targeting significant casualty reductions by 2035, supported by public opinion research showing broad backing for stricter action.