Speed Limit
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For 20 years, the 55 m.p.h. federal speed limit has turned American motorists into scofflaws. On April 25, several motorists successfully demonstrated this. A repeal of the 55 m.p.h. limit is long overdue. The article stated that legislators have yet to see the wisdom of allowing states to set the speed limit. However, there is a bill in Congress that will do just that. This bill, H.B. 1599, the Fair Speed Limit Act of 1993, has significant support in Congress.
The CHP’s “55 Saves Lives” is an empty slogan. Unsafe lane changes and following another car too closely are far more common causes of freeway accidents than is exceeding 55 m.p.h. Ironically, the 55 m.p.h. limit actually encourages traffic weaving and tailgating.
It is for purely political reasons that the 55 m.p.h. federal speed limit continues to hold sway over all other considerations. We deserve better.
NEIL SAATY
National Motorists Assn.
Torrance
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