Last Updated: November 8, 2026

Charles M. Farmer’s April 2019 IIHS study associated a 5 mph increase in a state’s maximum speed limit with an 8.5 percent higher fatality rate on interstates and freeways and a 2.8 percent higher rate on other roads. From 1993 through 2017, the estimate is 36,760 more deaths than expected if those limits had stayed at 1993 levels.

Congress repealed the National Maximum Speed Limit effective December 8, 1995. By April 2019, 41 states had maximum speed limits of 70 mph or higher, six more than in 2013. Six states had 80 mph limits, and Texas allowed 85 mph on some roads (IIHS).

Charles M. Farmer estimated 36,760 more traffic deaths from 1993 through 2017 than would have been expected if maximum speed limits had not increased: 13,638 on interstates and freeways and 23,122 on other roads. For 2017, 1,934 of 37,133 deaths, 5.2 percent, fit that comparison. A 5 mph increase in the maximum speed limit was associated with an 8.5 percent higher fatality rate on interstates and freeways and a 2.8 percent higher rate on other roads.

Farmer reports that after fatalities dropped during the 2007 to 2010 recession, traffic fatalities leveled off or began to climb. His model accounted for safety belt use; impaired driving and lack of restraint are other safety concerns. Separate NHTSA data show that pedestrian and cyclist fatalities rose overall between 2008 and 2017.

Farmer says driving 70 mph instead of 65 saves a driver at best 6.5 minutes on a 100-mile trip, and that lawmakers should weigh that time against the additional risk.

Higher speeds increase the energy in a collision and can worsen injuries in a car crash. Those injured by a speeding driver generally bring a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver; the driver’s liability insurer often handles negotiation and payment under the policy. Separate insurance-coverage proceedings can follow different rules. Under 215 ILCS 5/388, a postjudgment action may be maintained against the insurer when the statutory requirements are met, including an unsatisfied judgment because of the insured’s insolvency or bankruptcy; the action remains subject to policy terms, conditions and limits. They may want legal representation. A lawyer may be able to hire investigators to gather proof, especially the police report and physical evidence at the crash site. The lawyer may then strive for a reasonable settlement, litigating if one cannot be achieved.

Need a lawyer? This article discusses personal injury and wrongful death. See the personal injury and wrongful death pages. Call Parker & Parker at 309-673-0069 for a free consultation.

IIHS links rise in car crash fatalities with higher speed limits

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