A Complete Package: Formulating an Effective Speed-Management Program

This article discusses methods to reduce the incidence of excessive or inappropriate speed through speed management systems. The positive impacts of reducing vehicle speeds are described, using The Power Model, which shows that a five percent decrease in average speed leads to approximately a 10 percent decrease in injury accidents and a 20 percent decrease in fatal accidents. Speed's negative environmental effects such as increased emissions of greenhouse gases and local pollutants are also discussed. Speed management packages include education, the setting of speed limits that are appropriate for the conditions of the road and the traffic levels, infrastructure improvements such as road narrowing and the installation of speed humps, and consistent, clear signage to keep drivers informed. In the case of automatic enforcement, better results are obtained when the vehicle owner can be held legally liable. Section control is one cost-effective way to enforce speed limits. Additionally, tolerance levels for speed in excess of the limit should be well-publicized and should be no higher than five percent above it. Vehicle features such as cruise control, adaptive cruise control, and electronic stabilization control are also helpful in reducing the dangers associated with speed. Developing countries should look to the experience of the OECD/ECMT countries. Additionally, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent and the Global Road Safety Partnership are preparing a Speed Management book. Finally, appropriate political support is needed to achieve speed management goals.