SCOTSIN - SCOTLAND: Scottish Road System

SCOTLAND: Scottish Road System

Written by Scotland.org

Tuesday, 03 April 2007

The Scottish road system is extensive. The motorway network is based around Glasgow, Edinburgh and Stirling in the central belt. Motorways are identifiable by the letter 'M' followed by a number.

For example, the M8 joins Edinburgh and Glasgow and the M74 runs south over the Border into England and connects with the M6 at Carlisle.

'A' roads, also known as trunk roads, are smaller than motorways but many are dual carriageways (two lanes in each direction) or mostly dual carriageway, such as the A9 which leads north from Perth or the A72 to Aberdeen, and generally allow a free flow of traffic. 'B' roads are smaller single-carriageway roads used mainly by local traffic.

There are also unclassified roads.

Speed Limits

Unless otherwise signposted, speed limits on UK roads are:

Motorway: 70 mph/ 112 kph
Dual Carriageway: 70 mph/ 112 kph
Single Carriageway: 60 mph/ 96 kph
Built-up areas: 30 mph/ 48 kph

Fuel

Many fuel stations throughout Scotland are open 24 hours a day and all provide unleaded, lead-replacement petrol and diesel.

In remote areas (small villages or towns), distances between petrol stations are greater and opening hours may be not be 24hours. Fuel is priced and sold by the litre, please see signs at petrol stations.

Seat Belts

It is the law to wear seat belts, both front and rear. Small children and babies must be secured in an appropriate child seat or carrier.

The Highway Code

The rules for driving in Britain can be found in The Highway Code . This booklet is available from most good bookshops and newsagents which are found in most villages, towns and cities.

Roadside assistance

You can join a road assistance organisation in GB which means if you break down, phone the helpline for roadside assistance.

There is a joining fee which will be detailed in the links below:

This can also be arranged through your motor insurer.

Courtesy of the Scottish Government - Scotland Is The Place .

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