[mcdoogle6969]

Originally Posted by fielderLS3

What about the accidents caused by too low speed limits putting drivers to sleep or into a hypnotic state.



Higher speed limits could be a solution to a lot of that. Those are exactly the types of activities that driving slower than the road and conditions encourages, because at slow speeds, people feel they can get away with it.

Not paying attention, focusing on other stuff, texting, reading, falling asleep, etc.....these are all things people do when they get bored behind the wheel. And people get bored when they are forced to drive slower than what could be appropriate for conditions.

And speed limits on today's open stretches of interstate are in fact ridiculously low. Laws meant to govern old technology are still being applied to new technology. 40+ years ago, people seemed fine doing 70 mph with archaic suspensions, sloppy steering, non-existent aerodynamics, lousy tires, and insufficient brakes. Today's cars can easily handle higher speeds than our parent's and grandparent's, and today's speed limits should be adjusted to reflect that.

And don't forget the benefit we will reap in having better cars. In general, German cars tend to offer better driving dynamics than others. That is not just a coincidence. When you know your customers will be driving over 100 mph, you build the car right. On the other hand, when the national speed limit is 55, manufacturers can more easily say "good enough" and fill their showrooms with Pintos, Chevettes, and iron duke Camaros.

Couldn't have said it any better.