Why Not Post Lower Speed Limits?
Posting lower speed limits appears to be an easy answer to controlling speeders. However, engineering studies show that posted speed limits are not the most significant influence on driving speed. Research says that a reasonable and prudent driver will drive the speed suggested by roadway and traffic conditions (that is, drivers will drive at whatever speed seems comfortable)–even if that means ignoring the posted speed limit. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) emphasizes that ‘laws cannot be effectively enforced without the consent and voluntary compliance of the public majority.’ A speed limit that is realistic invites the majority of drivers to comply.
