Increasing the speed limit on a road where most drivers are already driving at or above the current limit requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure safety. Here are some steps that can be taken:
Conduct a speed limit study: Before making any changes, conduct a comprehensive study to evaluate the current traffic patterns, crash history, road conditions, and surrounding factors. This study can help determine if a speed limit adjustment is appropriate.
Consider engineering factors: Assess the road's design, including factors like road width, curves, intersections, sight distance, and the presence of pedestrian or bicycle traffic. The road should be designed to accommodate higher speeds safely.
Evaluate the 85th percentile rule: The 85th percentile rule is a common guideline used to set speed limits. It suggests that the speed limit should be set at the speed at or below which 85 percent of drivers are currently traveling. If most drivers are already driving at or above the current limit, it may indicate that the speed limit needs adjustment.
Consult with traffic engineers: Work with traffic engineers who specialize in roadway design and safety. They can analyze the data from the speed limit study, assess road conditions, and provide recommendations on adjusting the speed limit.
Consider road user safety: The safety of all road users should be the primary concern. Consider the presence of pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users when determining speed limits. If there are high levels of pedestrian activity or other factors that increase the risk, it may be necessary to maintain a lower speed limit.
Communicate and educate: If a decision is made to increase the speed limit, it is important to effectively communicate the changes to the public. Provide clear signage and educational campaigns to inform drivers of the new speed limit and emphasize the importance of adhering to it for safety.
Monitor and enforce: Once the speed limit is adjusted, continue to monitor the road to ensure that drivers are complying with the new limit. Enforce the speed limit through law enforcement efforts to deter excessive speeding.
It's important to note that increasing the speed limit should only be considered after a thorough analysis by traffic experts and engineers. Safety should always be the top priority, and decisions should be made based on data, engineering principles, and the well-being of all road users.