Dave Thompson MSP

Dave Thompson, SNP MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, has called for early action to address the issue of lorry speed limits on the A9 after the average speed cameras are installed.

When the move was announced, Mr Thompson cautioned that it could have unintended consequences and create situations where drivers are encouraged to take risks overtaking slower moving vehicles. He therefore wants quick assessment of the effect, on lorries in particular, over the first 3 month of use.

Dave said: “While I do welcome moves to improve the safety on the A9 by installing average speed cameras, I am concerned that the strict enforcement of the 40mph limit for lorries on single carriageways could, in fact, result in drivers facing queues of traffic travelling at 40mph behind one or more lorries.

“The Police must also strictly enforce tail-gating and safe stopping distances by HGV’s, and clamp down on the practice of platooning which is already an issue on the roads.

“I would also strongly urge the Scottish Government and Transport Scotland to bring forward the installation of the cameras and carry out a quick assessment of their effect. I am sure that installation of average speed cameras will improve safety on A9 but we must assess their effect, on lorries in particular, over the first three months as this is where I believe problems will arise.

“We all want to see a safer A9, and reducing the frustration of drivers is an important step to improving the safety on the road.”