Appropriate speed on the road is not always the limit!

If you have GPS car insurance with insurethebox you should be aware that you are more likely to earn a greater number of Bonus Miles every month if you drive on roads which are statistically safer for motorists to use, providing you drive at or under the appropriate speed for that piece of road.

But which roads are safer than others and what do we mean by ‘the appropriate speed'?

Safer roads
Motorways and dual carriageways might seem chaotic and fast, while country roads may seem relaxing and quiet, but in reality rural roads are statistically much more dangerous than motorways.

Data from the Department for Transport, and used on road safety charity Brake's website, shows that more than 50% of all the UK's fatal traffic accidents happen on rural roads.

Some reckless motorists may treat rural roads as a race track, particularly if they know the area well, since they may view them as being free from other vehicles and police presence. Juxtapose this with a typical day on a motorway, and the busy, CCTV-observed roads are likely to be one of the reasons why the majority of drivers obey road laws and consequently avoid accidents.

Country lanes and back roads may seem quiet by comparison, but they may be used by farm vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders, and there is a higher risk of coming across escaped livestock, fallen branches, and uneven road surfaces too.

Many rural roads contain sharp bends, and twists and turns, while high hedges and narrowness mean that visibility of the road ahead is often obscured. It is very easy to come face to face with another vehicle in a place where there is just not enough space and if the driver has been travelling too fast (even if it is within the speed limit), it is likely that a car accident will ensue.

Motorways and dual carriageways are generally fairly straight and drivers are usually able to see all around them. So, if the driver is alert and travelling at an appropriate speed for the conditions, they will be able to see other road users and adjust their driving accordingly.

Appropriate speed

• It is important that you do not drive above the speed limit stated for the road on which you are driving at any time.




• Your risk of suffering a car accident on a rural road is higher than on other types of road. Keep below the speed limit on country lanes and do not be intimidated by a vehicle if it comes close behind you.




Although motorways, dual carriageways and main roads are safe by comparison to rural roads, do not become over-confident. Remember that you may be driving fast and that you will have less time to react to any incident which might take place.

Enjoying the benefits of pay-how-you-drive car insurance
If you take care on the roads, whichever type you happen to be on, then you could be saving money with our GPS car insurance if you aren't already.

It's ideal for young or low-mileage drivers who drive in a safe and considerate manner.

Get a quote today by clicking the get a quote button, or contact us by phoning 0333 123 1308.