Abstract
The objective of this study was to document the change in operating speeds of cars and trucks on rural interstates and parkways as a result of the change in speed limit from 65 mph to 70 mph. The 85th percentile speed increased 1.3 mph for cars (74.6 to 75.9 mph) and 0.6 mph for trucks (69.8 to 70.4 mph) on rural interstates and 2.0 mph for cars (73.5 to 75.5 mph) and 1.2 mph for trucks (69.5 to 70.7 mph) on four-lane parkways. The increase in speed limits on a limited number of roads did not result in an increase in speeds on other highway types. There is a large difference between the 85th percentile speed and posted speed limit on non-interstate and parkway roads which were designed to accommodate higher speeds.
Report Date
5-2008
Report Number
KTC-08-10/UI56-07-1F
Digital Object Identifier
http://dx.doi.org/10.13023/KTC.RR.2008.10
Repository Citation
Agent, Kenneth R., "Evaluation of 70 MPH Speed Limit in Kentucky" (2008). Kentucky Transportation Center Research Report. 72.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/ktc_researchreports/72
Notes
The contents of this report reflect the views of the authors, who are responsible for the facts and accuracy of the data presented herein. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the University of Kentucky, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, nor the Federal Highway Administration. This report does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation. The inclusion of manufacturer names or trade names is for identification purposes only and is not to be considered an endorsement.