Speed limits are essential to keeping our roads and highways safe for drivers, pedestrians, and other travelers. However, as technology and infrastructure advance, the speed limits of roads and streets continue to be challenged. Speed limits help to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries caused by excessive speed (Riginos et al., 2022). They also help ensure that drivers maintain a safe speed on the roads and are conscious of the potential dangers of going too fast. For these reasons, speed limits must be limited and enforced.
One of the most compelling arguments for limiting speed limits is that they help to reduce the number of fatal accidents that occur on the roads. It is estimated that almost one-third of all fatal car accidents are caused by excessive speed (Riginos et al., 2022). This means that when speed limits are adhered to, there is a much lower risk of deadly accidents. Speed limits provide a clear and consistent signal to drivers about an acceptable rate of speed on the road, which helps to prevent dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding and reckless driving. Speed limits also incentivize drivers to be more aware of their surroundings and pay attention to other drivers on the road (Riginos et al., 2022). Furthermore, speed limits also help to reduce the severity of other accidents, as slower speeds help to minimize the impact of a crash.
In addition to helping to reduce the number of fatal accidents, limiting speed limits also helps to reduce the amount of air pollution caused by cars and trucks. Driving at lower speeds helps reduce fuel consumption and the number of emissions released into the atmosphere. For example, a car driving on the highway at 90 mph will consume more fuel and emit more pollutants than moving at 65 mph (Riginos et al., 2022). Reducing the speed limit can significantly reduce the amount of fuel consumed and emissions released.
Finally, limiting speed limits can also help to reduce traffic congestion. When drivers are forced to drive at a slower speed, they are less likely to be in a rush and are more likely to obey traffic laws. This helps to reduce the number of vehicles on the road at any given time, as drivers are less likely to speed and take risks on the road (Riginos et al., 2022). This, in turn, helps to reduce the amount of traffic on the roads and makes them safer for drivers and pedestrians alike. For instance, if the speed limit on a given stretch of road is reduced from 75 mph to 55 mph, drivers may be more inclined to drive at a lower speed instead of trying to go faster (Riginos et al., 2022). This can reduce the time each driver spends on the road, leading to fewer vehicles at any given time and, thus, less traffic congestion.
In conclusion, reducing speed limits is essential to making our roads and highways safer. Not only can it decrease the rate of fatal accidents but it also lessens air pollution and traffic congestion because vehicles use more fuel when traveling at higher speeds. As a result, limiting speed limits can help to reduce emissions and protect the environment. For these reasons, speed limits must be enforced to create a safer experience for all drivers and pedestrians.
Reference
Riginos, C., Fairbank, E., Hansen, E., Kolek, J., & Huijser, M. P. (2022). Reduced speed limit is effective for mitigating the effects of roads on ungulates. Conservation Science and Practice, 4(3), e618.