This presentation outlines a new way of setting speed limits based not on current operating speeds, but instead on the function of a road. It is proposed that road authorities should define a functional hierarchy of roads and idealised functional speeds, and then set speed limits according to these idealised functional speeds. The role of the road safety engineer is then to try and ensure these are both credible and safe. 

In the project, the Road Safety Foundation (RSF) proposed a conceptual functional hierarchy and functional speeds that could be used by road authorities as a starting position for consultation and inclusion in their own localised speed management policy.  

RSF also expanded the route review tool speed management methodology to be applicable for local roads where an iRAP survey has been undertaken, and proposals for existing tools that could be further developed to support decision making for roads where there has not yet been an iRAP survey.

Dr Suzy Charman, Executive Director, Road Safety Foundation

Dr Suzy Charman is a leading expert on the Safe System, with over 20 years’ experience.

In her role at RSF, Suzy leads the United Kingdom Road Assessment Programme and is a recognised thought-leader on speed management and infrastructure safety.  

Prior to joining RSF, Suzy served as Head of International Road Safety at TRL and before that played a pivotal role in the establishment of the International Road Assessment Programme (iRAP).