If you drive a van in the UK, you may have heard the rumor that vans with side windows have different speed limits compared to those with solid sides. This myth has circulated for some time, creating confusion about the rules on the road. Let’s explore the facts and clear up the confusion.
The Myth: Vans with Side Windows Have a Lower Speed Limit
For years, many van drivers believed that vehicles with side windows, especially those that appeared “converted,” had to follow a different speed limit than standard panel vans. Some even assumed that the presence of side windows lowered the maximum allowable speed, forcing vans to travel at a slower pace.
This misunderstanding likely stemmed from confusion about vehicle classifications and how UK road law treats different types of vans. Historically, speed limits for various vehicles—such as commercial goods vehicles, minibuses, and passenger cars—have varied. People may have mistakenly assumed that vans with side windows resembled passenger vehicles and should follow the speed limits for cars.
Additionally, some confusion arose from the way people described vehicle types. Vans with side windows weren’t always clearly defined, leading some to think they were more like passenger vehicles. However, the presence of side windows doesn’t change the vehicle’s classification when it comes to speed limits.
The Truth: Same Speed Limits for Vans with Side Windows
In truth, a van with side windows—whether it’s a crew van, minibus, or any van with windows—still follows the same speed limits as any other standard panel van. The key factors that determine speed limits aren’t whether the vehicle has windows, but whether it’s classified as a goods vehicle or a passenger vehicle, and whether it’s towing a trailer.
- For vans with side windows: The speed limit remains the same as for other light goods vehicles (LGVs), such as standard panel vans.
- Speed limits for towing vehicles: The only exception occurs when a van tows a trailer. In this case, the maximum speed limit for a van towing a trailer typically drops 10 mph from the normal limit.
- Speed limits for goods vehicles: Vans used for transporting goods follow the same general speed limits as other vans. If your van is classified as a goods vehicle but isn’t towing, you can drive at the same speed limit as a panel van without side windows.
In terms of specific numbers, a van without a trailer can typically travel at 60 mph on single-carriageway roads and up to 70 mph on dual carriageways and motorways. When towing, the speed limit drops to 50 mph on single-carriageways and 60 mph on dual carriageways or motorways.
Conclusion
To summarize, the speed limit for vans with side windows is not different from that of standard panel vans. The idea that windows change the speed limit is a myth. The only time the speed limit might differ is when a van is towing a trailer, or if it’s classified as a larger goods vehicle, in which case a reduction of 10 mph applies.
So, if you’ve ever felt confused or worried about speeding in a van with side windows, relax. As long as you’re not towing, your speed limit is the same as any other standard van on the road.
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