IN DEFENSE OF THE 55 M.P.H. SPEED LIMIT

Opposing views are given to published comments (Penthouse magazine, November 1979) by the editor-at-large of "Car and Driver" magazine condemning the fifty-five mile per hour national speed limit. It is pointed out that most drivers comply with the 55 mph speed limit, and that the 27% increase in speeding tickets from 1973 to 1978 must be viewed in terms of increased miles driven. Interstate highways are not designed for safety and comfort at 80 mph. There are substantial fuel savings to be realized in driving 55 mph. There is no productivity loss associated with the speed limit, and the essence of good transportation is not speed, but rather dependability, economy, safety, and resource use. The safety factor of the 55 mph speed limit has been proved; the fatality rate fell by a half point from 1973 to 1974 (post-implementation of the national limit), compared to all earlier improvements of .1 or .2 of a point. There is enjoyment to be found in driving along the nation's highways, as opposed to trying to get to one's destination as fast as possible. Calling for the defeat of legislators who supported the 55 mph speed limit is a classic example of single-issue politics.

  • Availability:
  • Corporate Authors:

    National Safety Council

    444 North Michigan Avenue
    Chicago, IL  United States  60611
  • Authors:
    • Sondel, D P
  • Publication Date: 1980-5

Media Info

  • Features: References;
  • Pagination: 3 p.
  • Serial:

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00384727
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
  • Report/Paper Numbers: HS-029 086
  • Files: HSL, USDOT
  • Created Date: May 30 1984 12:00AM