Letters to the Editor: Ohio's Speed Limit
hanks for pointing out that a 38% increase in accidents involving commercial trucks is inconclusive on its own. (“Trucking Officials: Ohio Accident Study Inconclusive;” Click here for previous coverage.)
I wonder if Ohio looked at the same seasons the year before the speed limit change, and whether the increase could be attributed to increased truck traffic on the Ohio Turnpike — since accident rates tend to increase with more traffic and bad weather.
The Turnpike Commission increased the speed limit to attract commercial traffic from overcrowded, free travel roads in the area. If it was successful, I am not surprised there have been more accidents on the ’pike.
William “Monk” Jones
i>Safety Director
irst Class Transport
ew Philadelphia, Ohio
I find it laughable to think that Ohio is looking for a way to blame the speed limit for increased accidents.
Is it really the case that professional drivers can’t handle their trucks at a high rate of speed, but a 16-year-old kid in a driver’s education car can? The only reason Ohio keeps the speed limit for trucks is the revenue.
There are a lot of reasons for accidents. In fact, the survey says that in 75% of accidents, cars are at fault.
Dave Schraub
I>Driver
ndianapolis
These letters appeared in the Aug. 22 print edition of Transport Topics. Subscribe today.
