Re-Institute National 55mph?

[jamesqf]

Lots of times & places where speed makes no difference to fuel economy, or even increases it. Take for instance yesterday, me coming down from Carson Pass (8500 ft) to the valley at about 5000 ft. Seems pretty obvious that I use the same amount of fuel - approximately zero - on that stretch. In fact, if I go somewhat (ok, quite a bit :-)) faster than 55, I can coast over some of the small rises, and further along the level at the bottom.

Likewise, if I'm headed into town (small ups & downs, with a couple hundred feet total change), I get the same or better FE by keeping speed high on the downgrades, so as to coast more on the flats and upgrades - yet I see a lot of brake lights on the downhill, as people waste fuel to stay within the posted limit.

And to the previous poster who thinks 55 is "old people" thinking, I suggest you take your ageism and use it as a suppository.

[tjts1]

Bill Orly is not news. Its propaganda. 55mph speed limit is a dumb idea. If the goal is to improve fuel economy, reduce congestion and improve safety all highway speed limits should be eliminated. Unfortunately local authorities make too much money handing out tickets. Oh well.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=1B-Ox0ZmVIU

[Arminius]

I just wish there was a network of roads/pathways for alternative transportation where I live. Driving a velomobile to work where I live is suicide.

[dcb]

I've been behind a "rolling road block" before. It is bizzare the effect it can have on you. I can recall that I was so irrational about it that I somehow felt "violated" for not being able to go 40 over the limit if I darn well pleased. Doesn't mean 55 is dumb from a fuel conservation or safety point of view. The government is spending a ton of money trying to secure cheap energy, somethings got to give.

[webshowpro]

Ageist, yes I am very guilty. The question I have is when was the last time you met a truly open minded senior citizen? One who was truly not afraid of to try something new? One whose mind was not made up 40 years ago? I am sure some are out there, I unfortunately have not met one yet.

That said. I do however, treat my elders with respect and listen to them when they have something to say. They certainly have valid concerns, and valuable experience to learn from.

[webshowpro]

Originally Posted by tjts1

Bill Orly is not news. Its propaganda. 55mph speed limit is a dumb idea. If the goal is to improve fuel economy, reduce congestion and improve safety all highway speed limits should be eliminated. Unfortunately local authorities make too much money handing out tickets. Oh well.

Well said.

[trikkonceptz]

Here's a funny thought, imagine a hwy system where there was no speed limit posted .. just a sign that dictated mpg for the road.

Instead of 55 speed limit it would say;

35mpg strictly enforced. That would definately curtail speeds then ...

Then all I can see is everyone putting along @ 45 mph except for Basjoos, doing 80 in the fast lane ...

Hahaha .. that would rock ..

[webshowpro]

Originally Posted by trikkonceptz

Here's a funny thought, imagine a hwy system where there was no speed limit posted .. just a sign that dictated mpg for the road.

Instead of 55 speed limit it would say;

35mpg strictly enforced. That would definately curtail speeds then ...

Hahaha .. that would rock ..

Maybe by then I could buy a used Tesla Roadster

[Gregte]

I am personally in favor of a national 55 limit. But one problem it would cause is worse highway congestion. If cars are moving slower, and assuming everyone is still traveling daily to get to where they need to go, the highways will have more cars on them at any given time.

But even so, if it were up to a vote of the populous (and it won't be) I would vote for 55. People need to slow down in general, not just their driving.

[homeworkhome53]

This topic would make a great idea for a remake episode of the "Twilight Zone". Ok, I am and old man. Thank God.

homeworkhome53