PRIORITY AREA
Driving the speed limit
Safer speeds reduce crash forces, give people more time to react, and protect everyone—especially people walking, rolling, and biking.
Data trends
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33%
of traffic fatalities involved a speeding driver from 2014–2023
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Safe System
Design roads and set speeds to reduce the consequences of human mistakes
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Highways and major arterial roads experience more speeding violations than residential streets. Local camera data and trend reporting can be updated here as new figures become available.
The law
Why the law exists and 2 components every driver needs to know.
About the Law
Speed limits are established by state and local agencies depending on the type and width of the roadway, type of area (school zone, suburban, etc.), types of traffic controls, and other factors. Speed limits matter, not only because it’s the law, but more importantly because survivability of a crash is more likely at slower speeds. Even small increases in speed dramatically increase the energy involved in a collision, which escalates the risk of serious injury or death.
Basic Speed Limit
Drive at a speed that is safe for current road, traffic, and weather conditions.
Absolute Speed Limits
60 mph on state highways · 25 mph on city and town streets · 25 mph at school or playground crosswalks · 50 mph on county roads
How you can help
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Keep an eye on speed limits
Check road signs and use optional GPS speed alerts.
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Plan ahead
Leave early and avoid peak traffic when possible.
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Minimize distractions
Put phones away and keep your attention on the roadway.
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Adapt to conditions
Slow down in rain, congestion, and other changing conditions.
Campaigns
A flexible module for current campaigns, downloadable materials, community actions, and partner resources.