Speed Limits Speech Topics
The recurrence of speed-limit discussions coincides with several factors, most commonly fuel prices or shortages. However, speed also affects safety, and both opinions and research abound that support varying theories on how officials should determine and set speed limits, how frequently, for whom, and whether the federal government should have a say in individual state speed limits. Currently, speed limits vary by state, so you can compare statistics as part of your speech.
Other People Are Reading
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Speed Limits Should Undergo Regular Review
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Some traffic engineers recommend periodic reviews of speed limits. Drivers have become accustomed to speed limits being static and unchanging for several years --- even decades --- for many highways. Yet the National Motorists Association advocates "periodic" adjustments and setting speed limits at the rate of speed driven by 85 percent of motorists on a given road or highway. This could also change the way speed-limit laws are set and raise other issues, such as adequate public education of more frequent changes.
Return to 55 mph
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For years 55 mph was the universal speed limit across the U.S. All states in the U.S. adopted the 55 mph speed limit by 1974 to avoid losing federal highway funds. The lower speed was touted as a way to combat the fuel crisis of the 1970s and remained unchanged until 1987 when states were allowed to raise speeds on certain highways. Research points to fuel savings at slower speeds, as well as increased safety.
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Semi Trailer Trucks
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Some states have different speed limits for semi trailer trucks. It takes longer to stop a semi trailer truck than a smaller vehicle, even if such trucks are equipped with the best braking technology, such as air brakes. Some states have lower speed limits for semi trailers for this very reason, while others implement slower speed requirements only for nighttime driving. Some individuals are concerned that speed-law variation for different vehicles decreases traffic safety.
Airlines and Speed
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Airplanes also save fuel when traveling at slower speeds. Airlines can also save fuel when traveling at reduced speeds. This obviously increases the travel time, which may not be popular with air passengers --- unless, perhaps, they were educated about the reason, and the savings is passed to customers by eliminating or reducing other fees that have become commonplace in air travel.
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References
Resources
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