Raise Illinois speed limit to 70 mph?
Is 65 mph not fast enough for Illinois drivers? Illinois law makers are considering an increase in the speed limit on Illinois roads to 70 mph. The increase would apply to interstates only and would allow all vehicles including large trucks, to travel at this speed.
Does a 5 mile an hour change make a difference. There are mixed opinions.
Some drivers believe that 70 mph is unnecessary and the a waste of gas. Some drivers also believe people will go faster than 70 mph.
Iowa's interstate roads went to 70 mph about five years ago. According to Doug Rick, an engineer with the Iowa Department of Transportation, fewer people are speeding. "As far as the flow of traffic, it seems more vehicles are driving close to the same speed than before."
However, there is a downside. According to Rick, the faster a car is moving, should they lose control, and end up in a crash, the crashes are more severe.
Originally Iowa experienced an increase in serous and fatal accidents by 15% percent. However, authorities say that the numbers have since declined and that 2009 had the lowest number of car accident fatalities in decades.
Last year Governor Quinn increased the speed limit in Illinois to 65 mph on interstate roads.
The new increase, if approved by the Illinois Senate Executive Committee would allow vehicles to travel at 70 mph on interstates, except aournd Chicago and urban areas.
