Reduced Speed Limits

"An unrealistically low speed limit can actually lead to accidents. Here's why:"

First, many studies conducted over several decades in all parts of the country have shown that a driver's speed is influenced more by the appearance of the roadway and the prevailing traffic conditions than it is by the posted speed limit.

Second, some drivers will obey the lower posted speed while others will feel it's unreasonable and simply ignore it. This disrupts the uniform traffic flow and increases accident potential between the faster and the slower drivers.

Third, when traffic is traveling at different speeds, the number of breaks in traffic to permit safe crossing is reduced. Pedestrians also have greater difficulty in judging the speed of approaching vehicles.

Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 32 "Louisiana Highway Regulatory Act" has been adopted by the City of Monroe under City Code Section 33.2.

Louisiana Revised Statutes 32:64 deals with unlawful speed. This law states that "No person shall drive a vehicle on a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and potential hazards then existing, having due regard for the traffic on, and the surface and width of the highway, and the condition of the weather, and in no event at a speed in excess of the maximum speeds established".

City of Monroe Code Sections 33.5 and 33.45.1 authorize the Traffic Engineer to set speed limits for travel over roadways under his authority as he deems necessary to regulate and guide traffic. Section 33.45.1 also states that "No person shall operate a vehicle in excess of twenty-five (25) miles per hour upon any street, avenue or roadway within the city limits, unless a posted speed limit has been established, in which event the posted speed limit shall prevail."

SOURCE: International Transportation Engineers, Florida Section, U.S. Department of Transportation, Monroe City Code, Louisiana Revised Statutes