Studies on freeway speeds and deaths?

Question

Are there any legitimate studies on the correlation between freeway speed limits and deaths from accidents?

In my state they are talking about lowering speed limits (this time it's because of global warming, but that's not the point), but if some people are driving the speed limit (lets say 55 mph, if the enviornmentalists here get their way) and others are driving at a typical freeway speed (maybe 70-75), I think that would be more dangerous, but I'm willing to admit I don't actually have proof.

Answer 1

The real problem here in the US is not speed, but poor driver attitude, and the willingness of States(in the name of commerace) to throw a driver license to anyone with $10.00 and a pulse.

In Germany, France and italy, they have NO speed limit on MANY of their hwy's, yet have far fewer deaths per 100,000/people/miles driven.

Were more concerned about making phones calls and where our cupholders are than actually the task at hand.

We RARELY give tickets for tailgating, and now people even use the exit lane as another lane on the freeway. 3rd world mentality.

Answer 2

the national highway traffic and safty adminstration NHTSA

also the federal dept of transportation

your local state dept of transpotation

your state highway patrol

just to name a few that could provide you with the info you seek

Answer 3

Speed,  highway design,  and the way people drive all cause accidents,   the biggest factor being the last.    Speed limits are set for various reasons,  looking at several factors including  average traffic flow,  normal traffic speed,  cross streets,  and more.  

The safest is when all traffic is moving smoothly with little or overtaking,   everyone at the same pace with plenty of room between vehicles.