First British speed limit under the Locomotive Act 1865

Background. By the 1860s, public concern grew over the safety of roads due to the widespread use of traction engines and road locomotives. These vehicles, sometimes weighing up to 14 tons, were alleged to damage highways while traveling at speeds up to 10 mph. The Locomotive Acts were a series of UK Parliament laws regulating mechanically propelled vehicles on public highways during the late 19th century.

Legislative Provisions. The Locomotives Act 1865 (28 & 29 Vict. c. 83) restricted the speed and operation of locomotives. It imposed a speed limit of 4 mph in the country and 2 mph in towns, with a £10 fine for contravention. The Act required a crew of at least two persons, with additional personnel for trains of wagons, and mandated the use of functional lights at night.

Red Flag Requirement. The Act is commonly known as the Red Flag Act. The red flag requirement associated with this name was later repealed by the Highways and Locomotives (Amendment) Act 1878, which instead required a pedestrian to walk at least twenty yards ahead to assist approaching horses and carriages. The supplied passages do not state the specific terms of the 1865 requirement itself.