Florida is considering raising the speed limit on its highways from 70 mph (112 km/h) to 75 mph (120 km/h). The Senate is studying the proposal under bill SB 462. If approved, Florida would become the nineteenth state to allow driving at more than 70 mph (112 km/h).
This isn't the first time it's been proposed; in 2015, something similar was suggested, but then-governor Rick Scott vetoed it. His argument was clear: the faster you drive, the more severe the accidents are.
Now, those who support the measure argue that the reality is different. Most drivers already exceed the current limits, which creates additional dangers for those who follow the rules.
The idea behind the bill is simple: reducing the speed difference between vehicles could decrease aggressive passing and, therefore, fatal accidents.
Harsher fines for offenders
Even though Florida is considering raising the limit, it's also toughening penalties. Drivers who exceed the limits may face fines of several thousand euros. In the most serious cases, they could even face up to 30 days in jail.
The data are alarming: according to the NHTSA, speeding was responsible for one third of road deaths in the United States in 2023. This explains why many lawmakers are so concerned. On one hand, they seek to adapt to the reality of drivers; on the other, they want to curb the most serious consequences of speeding.
Other states go in the opposite direction
While Florida is considering raising the limits, other states are aiming to lower them. New York, for example, plans to lower the limit in urban areas from 25 mph (40 km/h) to 20 mph (32 km/h) before the end of the year.
North Dakota has raised the speed on some interstates, but implemented a system of graduated fines. Washington, meanwhile, will require those who drive recklessly to install speed limiters in order to regain their license.
This shows that there's no consensus across the U.S. on the best strategy to improve road safety.
Is raising the speed limit a good idea?
The debate is old and remains open. Supporters say that modern cars are safer and that highways have also improved. They also argue that setting more realistic limits can prevent dangerous behavior from those who don't follow the rules.
Critics, on the other hand, point out a key fact: speed kills. Raising the limits could worsen the severity of accidents. In Florida alone, more than 4,000 people died on the road in 2023, representing 28% of speeding-related deaths in the U.S.