The following 10 tips should help you to drive within the speed limit

1. Check the speedometer regularly, especially when leaving high speed roads, and select the appropriate gear to help keep your speed in check. For most cars this is third gear for 30mph and fourth gear for 40mph.

2. Assume the presence of lamp posts means 30mph until signs say otherwise.

3. Speed limits indicate the maximum permitted speed - they are not a target, and do not always represent a safe speed.

Circumstances change and the safe speed may be considerably lower than the signed limit, especially in busy built up areas or poor weather conditions. Remember you should always drive at a speed that allows you to stop safely within the distance you can see.

4. Don't be intimidated by those driving behind you. You may choose to pull over and let them pass. Remember they can't push you to go faster - your choice of speed is your responsibility.

 

5. Recognise any factors that you know encourage you to speed and try to avoid them. For example, 'tailgating' and 'keeping up with the traffic flow'.

6. The 'two second rule' will help you keep a safe gap between you and the vehicle in front. Mark the vehicle in front against a static landmark such as a lamp post and say 'Only a fool breaks the two second rule'. This takes two seconds to say. If you pass the landmark before you have finished saying it, pull back - you are too close!

7. Concentrate - distracted drivers speed. Be aware that music can change your mood and behaviour. Choose your music carefully and consider driving with the radio or CD player switched off.

8. Slow down when entering villages - you would not like drivers speeding through your community, nor do other residents. If you have concerns about speeding in your area you could start a 'Community Speed Watch' scheme. For further information contact Essex Police on 01245 240600.

9. Plan your journeys - make sure you allow enough time to reach your destination without being pressured. If you are delayed you can always stop and phone to say you are running late.

10. As a passenger you do have the right to ask your driver to slow down if you feel unsafe. In a crash both driver and passenger will discover that the faster you go the harder you hit.