AAA analyzed a dozen roadways of different types in the United States in which half raised their speed limits while the other half lowered the limit.
The group then did a before-and-after assessment to see what kind of impact the altered speed limits had on traffic safety as well as commute times. Two of the three highways that increased speed limits experienced increased numbers of accidents, injuries, or deaths.
However, other road types that raised speed limits did not see a corresponding increase in accidents, injuries, or deaths, with AAA concluding that more research is needed. Moreover, commute times are said to remain “comparable” to where they were before the limits were raised – squashing the perception that increasing speeds would help drivers reach their destination quicker.
Maruti Suzuki Invicto Review: Cheaper than Innova Hycross but better? | TOI Auto
Lowering speed limits did have a marginal impact on commute times. “The benefits (of increasing speed limits) are overrated, and the risks are understated. Increasing speed limits does not always yield the positive results envisioned by traffic planners,” said Jennifer Ryan, director of state relations for AAA.
In India, the maximum speed limit notified by Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) is 120 kmph on expressways and 100 kmph on National Highways. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has been in favour of increasing speed limits of expressways in the country, after claiming that they are capable to handle higher speeds than what is currently prescribed.
Do you think the speed limits on expressways should be increased in India? Let us know in the comments down below.