An Overview Of The Effect Of The 55 Mph National Maximum Speed Limit Law On Traffic Fatalities PDF Download

In 1973, there were 54,590 traffic fatalities on the streets and highways of America. The mileage death rate was 4.17 deaths per 100 million miles traveled. In 1974, 1975 and 1976, there were 45,536, 44,995, and 45,113 traffic fatalities, respectively, and the mileage death rate dropped to an all time low of 3.3 in 1976. A major reason for this dramatic reduction in loss of life has been the imposition and continuation of the 55 mph speed limit. Initially imposed as a fuel conservation measure, the 55 mph speed limit has resulted in safety benefits far beyond the most optimistic predictions of safety experts. Some studies have concluded that approximately 50 percent of the more than 9,000 lives saved each year since 1973 can be attributed to the 55 mph speed limit. A recent study by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) concluded that at least 66 percent of the fatality reduction is directly attributable to the 55 mph speed limit. Given that these studies are relatively accurate, it can be concluded that 4,500 to 6,000 lives have been saved each year as a result of the 55 mph speed limit. No other traffic safety measure thus far implemented has achieved this degree of success in saving lives. This publication contains selected facts about the 55 mph speed limit.