fungus wrote:7db wrote,
Guidance from DfT on countdown markers is that they should only be used where the limit change is obscured.
On the A354 between Salisbury & Blandford there is a change of speed limit from NSL to 30mph. The change is just out of sight around a fast right hand bend, and about 150yds. from the entrance to the village of Pimperne, which due to the hight of the hedges is not visible. There are no count down markers, and the first warning of a change is usualy the brake lights of the vehicles in front, as they round the bend and see the limit change. This is a classic case of the need for count down markers, but Dorset Highways Dept. does not seem to use them. The only one I know for in the county is on the A357 between Blandford & Stalbridge, approaching a blind summit.
I have noticed that Devon & Cornwall use them though.
Nigel ADI
IAM trainee observer
If I had my way we'd be using countdown markers rather more widely, where relevant to 30 mph limits, and getting rid of 40 mph buffer zones and a good deal of the other crap.
As far as signs in general are concerned, my guess is that good drivers don't need most of them, and the poorer driver don't see them anyhow! They are therefore largely redundant and a waste of money.
Best wishes all,
Dave.