AAA research reveals raising speed limits may mean trouble for road users

Speeding is a critical factor in vehicle crashes across the nation. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were more than 42,000 traffic deaths in 2021 and again in 2022, the highest levels in 16 years. NHTSA reports that speeding was a factor in nearly 29 percent of the fatalities in 2021 and 27 percent in 2022.

Key study findings

·Raising posted speed limits was associated with increased crash frequencies for two of the three Interstate highways examined.

·Lowering posted speed limits was associated with decreased crash frequencies for one of the two principal arterials examined. However, the likelihood of speed limit violations increased with lower speed limits, suggesting the need for better public awareness education about these changes.

This study is the third phase of the AAA Foun

For more information, contact Theresa Podguski, Director of Legislative Affairs, at 610-778-3303 or Podgski.Theresa@ace.aaa.com.