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  "path": "/lifestyle/cars/northern-ireland-motorists-penalties-lower-speed-limits",
  "publishedAt": "2026-04-20T14:20:23.000Z",
  "site": "https://www.gbnews.com",
  "tags": [
    "Electric cars make up 98% of all vehicle sales in Norway as drivers across Europe embrace EVs",
    "Electric scooter trial could launch across coastal city with new licence and speed restrictions",
    "Motorhomes and campervans banned from Snowdon national park as anti-social behaviour prompts action",
    "The GB News Editorial Charter"
  ],
  "textContent": "\n\n\nDrivers in Northern Ireland are being urged to have their say on sweeping road changes that could see more penalties handed out to motorists.\n\nA major consultation on a Speed Limit Review, launched by the Department for Infrastructure, is due to close this week.\n\n###\n\n\n\n\nThe 14-week consultation began on January 14 and will officially shut on April 22, with motorists urged to share their views beforehand.\n\nThe review focused on improving road safety across Northern Ireland with proposals that could lower speed limits across a range of roads.\n\n###\n\n\n\n\nTRENDING\n\nStories\n\nVideos\n\nYour Say\n\n###\n\n\n\n\nOne of the key ideas under consideration is expanding 20mph zones in built-up areas, as evidence suggests that slower speeds can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury or death in collisions.\n\nThe DfI said communities often feel \"more comfortable and connected\" when traffic moves at lower speeds, helping to create a stronger sense of place.\n\nThere are also proposals to change national speed limits on rural roads and dual carriageways across the region.\n\nData showed a clear link between higher speeds on rural roads and fatal crashes, with the DfI stating that reducing speed limits in these areas could save lives.\n\n###\n\n\n\n\n###\n\n\n\n\n###\n\n\n\n\nWhile the impact may be smaller on dual carriageways, lower speeds are still expected to reduce both the likelihood and seriousness of accidents.\n\nThe review also looks at potentially increasing speed limits for HGVs, arguing that it would improve traffic flow, reduce dangerous overtaking, and shorten journey times for lorry drivers.\n\nHowever, the wider package of changes has raised concerns among some drivers, particularly around enforcement and the possibility of more penalties if limits are reduced.\n\n### LATEST DEVELOPMENTS\n\n\n\n\n  * Electric cars make up 98% of all vehicle sales in Norway as drivers across Europe embrace EVs\n  * Electric scooter trial could launch across coastal city with new licence and speed restrictions\n  * Motorhomes and campervans banned from Snowdon national park as anti-social behaviour prompts action\n\n\n\n###\n\n\n\n\n###\n\n\n\n\n###\n\n\n\n\nInfrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said: \"Road safety is a high priority for me and for my Department, and I'm delighted to announce this public consultation of a Speed Limit Review as part of my commitment to working proactively to make our roads safer for everyone.\n\n\"It is clear from the evidence that excessive speed remains one of the most significant factors in collisions and fatalities on our roads.\"\n\nThe minister pointed to recent figures, noting how 56 people died as a result of road traffic collisions in 2025, which dropped from 69 in 2024.\n\n\"These are not just statistics; behind the numbers are families and communities who have been left heartbroken by often preventable tragedies,\" she warned.\n\n###\n\n\n\n\n###\n\n\n\n\n###\n\n\n\n\nMs Kimmins explained how lower speed limits are proven to reduce fatalities and injuries, protect vulnerable road users, and create healthier communities.\n\nShe added that the changes could also support the department's wider goals, including cutting emissions and encouraging more people to walk or cycle.\n\n\"Together, we can make our roads safer for everyone. I sincerely encourage you to read this review, share your thoughts, and join us in shaping a safer future for all,\" Ms Kimmins urged.\n\n###\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n**Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter**",
  "title": "Motorists face tougher penalties and lower speed limits under new nationwide proposals"
}