An overhaul of speed limits on British Columbia roads means drivers can put the pedal a little closer to the metal on some highways, while Mother Nature will decide the limit on others.

Highways Minister Todd Stone says results of a review of rural highway safety led government to raise the top speed on certain divided, multi-lane highways to 120 kilometres per hour from 110.

The new top speed takes effect today on the Coquihalla Highway between Hope and Kamloops, the Okanagan Connector from just outside Merritt to Peachland, and along a section of the Island Highway between Parksville and Campbell River.

A pilot project is also planned for sections of the Coquihalla Highway, Highway 1 between Sicamous and Revelstoke, and parts of the Sea-to-Sky Highway north of Vancouver, using reader boards to set variable speed limits that depend on road conditions.