A call for more speed
Posted Apr 18, 2012 05:02:18 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Imagine cruising down the 401 at 130 km/h, legally.
A group out of Oshawa, Stop100, is trying to make that happen, by asking the province for a speed limit increase on all 400-series highways.
This group points to speed limits in Europe and the United States between 120 km/h and 130 km/h and says that would work here.
Stop100 says the 400-series highways should be 120 km/h in metro areas, but on the 407 and 401 express and on all 400-series highways outside of metropolitan areas the limit should be 130 km/h.
The group also points out that 40 years ago the limit was 70 mph, or 112 km/h and that over those 40 years, vehicle safety has improved.
Michael has questions, “what’s the ratio from speed increment to accident increase? What are peoples reaction times at speeds over 130?” Michael adds if the speed limits were increased, people would simply go even faster.
Louis doesn’t think 130 km/h is safe, “to me, when you go over 100, it’s not safe at all.”
Dave says people are doing it anyway, “when I was working in Vaughan, I’m doing 120 on the way home, and people are flying by me like I’m standing still.”
Regardless, the Ontario Government is saying it’s not going to happen.
Minister of Transportation, Bob Chiarelli says the government is, “not inclined in any way, shape or form to increase the speed limits on Ontario roads.” Chiarelli points to speed being a factor in 20% of fatal crashes.
