Speed Limits

I don’t know too many people who actually drive the speed limit. They may go over a couple of miles or 15 over (tisk, tisk), but there is one thing I wondered is how they come to be. I know the obvious, lawmakers make these decisions, but what does it all intel. The first speeding ticket was issued to a cab driver named Jacob German in 1899. That guy was going 12 miles per hour in an 8 hour per hour zone. He ended up getting some jail time. That still holds true today for drivers going over the speed limit, we could receive a fine, jail time, or both. Speed limits are in place for our safety. It is unfortunate that thousands of people die each year due to speeding-related crashes.  

Both science and politics goes into the process of figuring out speed limits in Texas. Speed limits on Texas highways are set by the 85th percentile method, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. The observed free-flowing speed for vehicles is tallied, and the 85th percentile speed is calculated using gathered information. This is how engineers design speed zones in communities, school zones, and work zones. It can also be lowered 10 miles per hour depending on conditions of curves and hills, crash history, rural residential or developed area. The max speed is set at 70 miles per hour, but the Texas Transportation Commission is allowed a max of 75 miles per hour (80 mph or 85 mph if the highway is designed to accommodate that speed).

Since 1974, the speed limit was set at 55 miles per hour and then was increased to 65 in 1987. But in 1995, Congress repealed that max speed, and since then more than 30 states set the limit to 70 miles per hour or higher. While increasing speed limits is favorable, there is also an increased risk of injury or death for pedestrians and bicyclists. This has left some states to take legislative efforts to give municipalities the authority to reduce speed limits.

Staying Safe

All anyone wants is to be safe on the road, whether being the driver, passenger, or a pedestrian. Safe driving is one way to be safe and driving a reliable vehicle. If you think it is time to by another vehicle, consider Williams Group Auto to find a pre-owned car or truck. We have a large selection of certified pre-owned vehicles, visit us at www.williamsgroupauto.com to view our virtual showroom or come by one of our three locations in Abilene.