The original intention of the 55 mph speed limit law following the Middle East Oil Embargo was to reduce gasoline consumption. A substantial reduction in traffic accidents, particularly fatal accidents, was experienced as a result of both the fuel shortage and the lowered speed limit. The State of Illinois experienced statistically significant reductions in fatal and injury accidents on Federal Aid Interstate and other State marked routes during the 55 mph speed limit time period. In addition, there were reductions in accidents on all road types, regardless of posted speed limit, during the period of the fuel shortage (October 1973-March 1974).
The Effect of the 55 MPH Speed Limit on Traffic Accidents in Illinois
1980
16 pages
Report
No indication
English
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