The authors discuss the pros and cons of general speed limits, and the expected positive and negative effects of speed limits, the problems inherent in quantifying the expected effects, and the effects of such limits on personal freedom, ease of driving, safety, journey time, pollution and employment in the motor vehicle industry. It is recognized that the effects of speed limits have been measured in different ways in different countries. This situation is discussed, and a chapter is devoted to the question of how to investigate scientifically the expected connection between a general speed limit and safety and ease of driving. Examples are given of investigations undertaken in various countries which reflect the difficulty of making an international comparison of results obtained by different research methods, leading to proposals by an oecd working party for the implementation of a common methodology. The technique of cost-benefit analysis to evaluate the economic value of general speed limits is discussed in relation to defined decision criteria such as accident rates, vehicle operating costs, time consumption, environmental effects, economic growth, supporting measures and effects on road engineering and motor vehicle technology. Reference is made to studies conducted in the uk, sweden, the federal republic of germany and the usa. A summary of the discussion on the report is included leading to recommendations for the practical application of speed limits.
Abstract