The findings come as the Government presses ahead with a new Road Safety Strategy aimed at reducing deaths and serious injuries by 65 per cent by 2035.

As part of that strategy, ministers have confirmed there will be updated guidance on setting local speed limits, raising the prospect of further reductions to the long-standing 30mph default in urban areas.

Across the UK, more councils have been introducing 20mph limits in towns and cities, with Wales introducing lower speeds on residential roads, while parts of Scotland are lowering speeds under its 2030 Road Safety Framework.

Transport Scotland shared: “With speed management being a priority, as well as the subsequent 2022 Programme for Government commitment to roll out our national strategy for expanding 20mph zones, with more roads and areas reducing their speed limits to 20mph – making our streets feel safer and encouraging active travel.”

Greg Wilson, CEO and car insurance expert at Quotezone, said: “With changes to speed limits continuing to be discussed across the UK, our research suggests many motorists remain unconvinced about reducing key 30mph roads to 20mph, with concerns likely centred around journey times and practicality.”

In the first year after Wales introduced its default 20mph limit in 2023, around 100 fewer people were killed or seriously injured, according to official figures.

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Separate research suggested that cutting average speeds by just 1mph can reduce crash frequency by around five per cent.

Mr Wilson acknowledged the safety data across Wales, but warned that councils must strike a balance between lowering speeds and keeping traffic moving.

He said: “That being said, evidence from Wales, for example, demonstrates that lower limits can have a positive impact on road safety, with data from the first year of implementation showing fewer people killed or seriously injured.

“Ultimately, decisions around speed limits sit with local authorities, and they must balance public sentiment with safety outcomes, congestion, and the needs of different road users when assessing what’s appropriate for their communities.”

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Drivers have also been warned that, regardless of the debate, they must stick to the law as more roads switch to 20mph.

In the UK, drivers can be slapped with a minimum penalty of £100 and three penalty points for breaking the speed limit.

“With lower limits appearing on more roads, it’s important drivers watch for signage and adapt their speed to make sure they stay safe and avoid fines,” Mr Wilson added.

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He also pointed to the potential insurance impact, explaining how “any measure that successfully reduces collisions is positive news for premium prices”.

“Fewer accidents could lead to fewer claims, and over time that has the potential to ease the pressure on car insurance costs,” he said.

The new Road Safety Strategy is currently being consulted on by the Government, with the aim of introducing tougher road rules later this year.