Raising speed limits can have dangerous consequences, leading to an increase in car crashes, according to a recent analysis by AAA. While this may seem like an obvious conclusion, it is important to highlight it given the number of states that are convinced that raising speed limits can save drivers time, when in reality it endangers the lives of pedestrians and cyclists.
The AAA analysis is part of a growing body of evidence that demonstrates the significant impact that changing speed limits can have on road safety in the United States. The study focused on a dozen different roadways across the country, with half of them raising their speed limits and the other half lowering them. By conducting a before-and-after assessment, AAA was able to determine the effect that altered speed limits had on both traffic safety and commute times.
The results of the analysis showed that two out of the three highways that increased their speed limits experienced an increase in the number of crashes, injuries, or deaths. Surprisingly, the commute times remained relatively unchanged, debunking the expectation that higher speeds would lead to faster trips for drivers. Although some road types that raised their speed limits did not see a corresponding increase in accidents, AAA concluded that more research is needed in order to fully understand the implications.
On the other hand, lowering speed limits had only a marginal impact on commute times. This finding helps to counter arguments that suggest altering speed limits comes at the expense of travel time and driver convenience.
The analysis further reinforces the fact that speeding is a critical factor in traffic crashes in the US. Speeding-related fatalities have reached a 14-year high, making up nearly one-third of all traffic deaths, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This is a concerning statistic, especially in the midst of an ongoing “crisis” in road deaths, with traffic fatalities peaking in 2021.
In light of the findings, AAA recommends that states take a holistic approach when considering whether to raise or lower speed limits. Factors such as road type, surrounding land use, and historical crash data should all be taken into account to ensure the safety of all road users.
Jennifer Ryan, the director of state relations for AAA, cautions against overrating the benefits and understating the risks of raising speed limits. She points out that the movement to raise speed limits in statehouses is occurring across the country in at least eight states this year, but the positive results envisioned by traffic planners are not always realized.
In conclusion, raising speed limits may seem like an attractive option to save time for drivers, but the evidence suggests otherwise. AAA’s analysis demonstrates that increasing speed limits leads to more car crashes, while lowering them results in fewer accidents. With the alarming rise in speeding-related fatalities and the ongoing road death crisis in the US, it is crucial for states to approach speed limit decisions with caution and prioritize the safety of all individuals on the road.
