Speed Limit = Useless

[Timpo]

Speed Limits Prove To Be Fatal

It's a long read but the information contained within is quite interesting.

Here is what the Montana data shows. (chart below) After all the politically correct safety programs were in place and fully operational, complete with federal safety funds, more laws and citations being issued. Here are the results.

1. After the new Speed Limits were established, interstates fatal accidents went up 111%. From a modern low of 27 with no daytime limits, to a new high of 56 fatal accidents with speed limits.

2. On interstates and federal primary highways combined, Montana went from a modern low of 101 with no daytime limits, to a new high of 143 fatal accidents with speed limits.

3. After a 6 year downward trend in the percentage of multiple vehicle accidents on its 2 lane primary highways, multiple vehicle accident rates increased again.

4. With the expectation of higher speed when there was no daytime limit, Montana痴 seat belt usage was well above the national average on its highways without a primary law, lane and road courtesy increased, speeds remained relatively stable and fatal accidents dropped to a modern low. After the new limits, fatal accidents climbed to a modern high on these classifications of highway, road courtesy decreased and flow conflict accidents rose again.

 

[flaminio]

It's the Montana Paradox, but if you look at it a little deeper, it's not much of a paradox at all.

Absent any external pressure (speed limits), people tend to drive at a speed which they are most comfortable. And this speed, which varies from person to person, turns out to be the safest speed. If they drive faster, or if they drive slower, the rate of accidents increases.

A speed limit artificially places an upper bound, compelling some people to drive slower than that which they are comfortable. Hence, more accidents, and deaths.

 

[queenlives]

article date = 5/10/2001

any factual / hard data wrt u.s. driver records more current on this?

 

[queenlives]

<snip> Absent any external pressure (speed limits), people tend to drive at a speed which they are most comfortable. And this speed, which varies from person to person, turns out to be the safest speed. If they drive faster, or if they drive slower, the rate of accidents increases.

A speed limit artificially places an upper bound, compelling some people to drive slower than that which they are comfortable. Hence, more accidents, and deaths.

interesting thoughts. i'd be interested in reading the scientific studies that support your comments. got links?