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How drivers react to variable speed limits

On Behalf of | Nov 12, 2020 | Car Crashes, Personal Injury

The use of variable speed limits may help to reduce the frequency of accidents that take place near construction zones in Texas and around the country. Furthermore, a researcher from the University of Missouri says that variable speed limits may help to decrease congestion without significantly increasing travel time.

Motorists can be influenced by variable speed limits

The University of Missouri associate professor led a team that placed advisory speed limit signs on a stretch of Interstate 270 in St. Louis where accidents frequently occur. On average, drivers who saw these signs reduced their speed by about 10 miles per hour prior to entering a construction zone or work area. Furthermore, there was a 53% decrease in the number of vehicles waiting to get through these areas at any given time.

Fewer cars means fewer accidents

It was determined that the odds of being involved in a rear-end collision dropped by 30% when variable speed limits are put into use. The data also revealed that there was a 20% drop in the number of arguments that occurred among those who attempted to change lanes in a work area.

Drivers don’t even realize they’re being delayed

The study found that travel times for drivers who slowed down while entering a construction zone increased by as little as 4%. According to the study’s author, you are unlikely to notice such a slight delay.

If you are involved in a traffic accident in a construction zone or anywhere else, you may be entitled to compensation. A financial award may help to pay medical bills, repair your vehicle or make up for lost wages or future earnings. An MVA attorney might use witness statements or other evidence to establish that the crash was caused by the negligence of another driver. Your case may be resolved either through a negotiated settlement or in a jury trial.

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