By Leftlane Staff
Friday, Apr 7th, 2006 @ 9:33 am

It may sound obvious, but as speed limits on equal roads increase, speeding decreases, according to new data released by Britain’s Department of Transport. The data is interesting because those opposed to high speed limits have long argued that increasing the speed limit means drivers will just go even faster. For example, if they drive 15 over in a 30 mph zone, they’re likely to drive 15 over in 40 mph area as well. However, according to the data, that is not the case. On roads with a 30 mph limit, half of passenger cars exceeded the speed limit. On similar roads with a 40 mph limit, just 25 percent of cars exceeded posted limit. This seems to suggest that drivers know a safe speed, and high speed limits would not lead to equally high speeding. Speed limits of 30 and 40 mph usually apply on roads within cities and towns. On high-speed motorways, it’s clear drivers also think the speed limits are still too low. With 70 mph limits, between 50 and 60 percent of drivers exceed the speed limit. Perhaps more realistic speed limits would be a good idea both here in North America and in Britain. Post your thoughts in the comment section…

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