Motorists are now able to affix a ‘T’ plate to their vehicles while driving on vacation. Unlike the commonly seen ‘L’ and ‘P’ plates, the ‘T’ plate is a recent addition to road signage.
The purpose of the ‘tourist’ plate is to notify other drivers of your newcomer status in the area, advising them to maintain a safe distance as you navigate unfamiliar road conditions. This initiative was developed by Robert Marshall, a seasoned advocate for road safety in Scotland, in collaboration with Laura Hansler. Their primary goal is to reduce fatal accidents on the challenging A9 highway in Scotland.
The A9’s single-carriageway layout often leads to drivers encountering obstacles such as slow-moving lorries or limited opportunities for overtaking, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the area. The surge in Scotland’s popularity as a post-COVID road trip destination has further exacerbated these challenges.
According to Drivers Domain UK, tourists can be a significant concern on the A9 due to distractions from the picturesque surroundings and adverse weather conditions, including frequent deer strikes. Laura’s trial of the ‘T’ plate yielded positive results, with many drivers voluntarily giving more space to the marked vehicle.
The inspiration for the ‘T’ plate came from Robert’s frustrating experience in Tenerife, where he felt overwhelmed by impatient drivers behind him while driving. This scenario may resonate with those who have grappled with driving rental cars in unfamiliar locations during vacations.
The A9, spanning 273 miles as Scotland’s longest trunk road, continues to present challenges for drivers, particularly on the segment between Perth and Inverness. Unfortunately, the planned dualing of this section is not expected to be completed until 2035, a decade later than initially promised by the Scottish Government.
Since 2012, there have been 51 fatalities and 208 serious injuries on the A9, with 2022 marking a particularly deadly year. The surge in domestic tourism post-COVID has led to a notable increase in motorhome and campervan traffic, contributing to congestion and safety concerns on the road.
‘T’ plates are now available for purchase online at £9.99.