some good news for the new year, higher speed limits on a couple freeways

As cars become better handling, nimble, quieter, and comfortable at higher speeds, drivers are consciously or subconsciously increasing their speeds. According to the LA Times, many states are not increasing their speed limits to encourage faster driving, but are changing to reflect speeds drivers are already driving.

Since 2008 Utah highway officials state highway crashes have dropped annually, and on top of that more drivers are complying with posted speed limits than before the increases.

Found on  http://www.hotrod.com/news/higher-interstate-speeds-are-safer/

Southeast of Austin Texas a toll road went with an 85 mph limit, and cut the commute in 1/2 from San Antonio to Austin.

But why 85? Why only this road? If the limits on the other highways and freeways are set due to safety, as we've been lied to for ages, or oil and gas consumption, than why can this piece of road get an 85? Because there are no logical reasons for speed limits under 100. When the 55mph, or 65mph limit was set, cars were far more primitive than todays run of the mill 5 year old car. No airbags, no modern suspension, crush zones, etc. So safer cars are far more advanced, and the speed limits never changed.

Cars get twice the gas mileage on average, as they did in the 70's… and the hybrids just blow the grade curve all to hell. So gas mileage has wiped out that excuse.

It's all about the money of course.

“critics point out the Transportation Department had a financial incentive to set the speed higher. As part of its contract with SH130 Concession Co., the company funding the new toll road, the state would receive $67 million for setting the speed limit at 80 mph and $100 million if the speed was 85 mph.”  http://www.foxnews.com/leisure/2012/10/24/fastest-road-in-america-opens-to-motorists-in-texas/