North Carolina RADAR State Practice Exam

By how much did traffic fatalities decrease as a result of the 55 mph national speed limit?

1. 10%

2. 20.5%

3. 25%

4. 16.8%

The correct answer is: 16.8%

The reduction in traffic fatalities as a result of the implementation of the 55 mph national speed limit was approximately 16.8%. This decrease is attributed to the fact that lower speed limits have been shown to contribute to safer driving conditions. Slower speeds reduce the severity of accidents, thereby decreasing the likelihood of fatalities. The 55 mph speed limit was introduced during the 1970s primarily for fuel conservation during an oil crisis, but it also had the unintended benefit of improving road safety. Evidence from traffic studies highlighted this correlation, suggesting that compliance with reduced speed limits leads to fewer deaths on the roads. In contrast, other percentages presented do not align with the statistical data recorded following this policy change, emphasizing the significance of accurate research in traffic safety measures.