Speed limits are created in order to provide guidance for drivers on safe and reasonable speeds. Speed limits help keep drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and bicyclists safe. There are various categories of speed limits that are set for different circumstances, may be set for different roads, or that can be set for different times. According to the Federal Highway Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation, statutory speed limits are established by State legislatures for specific types of roads. This includes for interstates, rural roasts, and urban streets, and these limits vary from state to state. Statutory speed limits are enforceable by law and can be applied even if the speed limit is not posted (I.e. statutory speed limits of 25 mph in school districts).
Posted speed limits, according to the Federal Highway Administration, are those that are sign-posted along the road and are also enforceable by law. Additionally, special conditions speed limits include school zone speed limits, which are used during specific hours when children are traveling to and from school, and also include work zone speed limits. Advisory speeds are posted for a small portion, such as a sharp curve or ramp to inform drivers of safe driving speeds. A common misconception is that the federal government sets or enforces speed limit, when in actuality, this authority belongs to state and local agencies with jurisdiction.
A recent news report revealed that a two-car crash left three residents dead in Elkton, Maryland. According to the report, a 2014 Hyundai was traveling eastbound on Route 40 at a high rate of speed, slamming into the passenger side of a 2010 Honda Civic. The driver of the Honda was attempting to turn left. The Hyundai’s driver and two of the Honda’s occupants were pronounced dead at the scene. The crash is still being investigated.
When Is a Driver at Fault for Causing a Maryland Car Accident?
Drivers of all vehicle types should pay close attention to speed limits, including advisory speed limits to ensure the safety of all road users. The Federal Highway Administration revealed that state and local transportation agencies recommend and set appropriate speed limits by conducting engineering speed studies, which consider factors including, but not limited to speeds of motorists in normal conditions, traffic volume, roadway type, roadway features including curves or the number of lanes, and pedestrian or bicycle activity. If you have been injured in a car accident where another driver was driving at a high-speed rate, it can be helpful to connect with an experienced personal injury lawyer today.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Car Accident?
Have you or someone you love been injured in a Maryland car accident? Contact the dedicated personal injury lawyers at Lebowitz & Mzhen, LLC. Our firm handles complex personal injury cases in the state of Maryland including in Prince George’s County, Charles County, Baltimore County, and Montgomery County. You don’t have to navigate your claims alone. Our attorneys have years of experience helping clients recover the damages they deserve. To discuss the specifics of your case, call us today at 800-654-1949 for a no-obligation, free consultation.