Sometimes speed doesn’t kill

Sometimes speed doesn’t kill

Marietta Times: First, Ohio Turnpike Commission reported a record low number of fatalities on the 241-mile toll road last year — after the speed limit was raised to 70 mph.

Then, state Rep. Ron Maag, R-Lebanon, proposed raising the speed limit on all Ohio interstates from 65 mph to 70 mph.

We hope the idea doesn’t end up in the fast lane.

State legislators should keep in mind that for most of its length, the Ohio Turnpike is three lanes wide in both directions. Most interstates are only two lanes wide until they traverse areas with greater traffic congestion.

Also, many drivers on Ohio interstates already push their speed to 70 mph. Raising the posted speed limit to 70 mph likely would result in more drivers cruising along at 75 mph. And, any crashes that occur at the higher speeds are likely to be more severe, which would raise the cost in terms of injuries and damage to vehicles.

Increased costs won’t stop there. Studies have shown decreased fuel efficiency at higher rates of speed, and there would be a cost associated with replacing roadside signs.

State lawmakers should direct Maag’s proposal to the next off ramp.