Overhead Gantry Signs on Motorways - Hawesy1982
Just a quick question really...

I often see the overhead gantry variable speed limit signs on when i am driving in the early hours of the morning.

They will be on for just a couple of stretches of road, then off again, but for that period will show (usually) 50mph, and sometimes even lanes closed off. However there is absolutely no activity on the road whatsoever in the way of roadworks, accidents, bridge maintanence etc. and i have come to assume that the lights have been accidentally left on.

What are the legalities here? Is it something to do with whether or not the orange lights are flashing, or if the speed is in a red circle?

And would i get done for not obeying them when it is quite clear that they are wrong?
Overhead Gantry Signs on Motorways - Altea Ego
To be an enforceable speed limit, the limit needs to be displayed in a red circle. Limits displayed in any other form are advisable only. However if you speed through "advised" limits (say 70 in an advised 50) plod can nick you for due care and attention.
Overhead Gantry Signs on Motorways - Adam {P}
I asked this question ages ago:

www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=18067&...5

Hope that helps
Overhead Gantry Signs on Motorways - Hawesy1982
Thanks Adski