Speed Saves
Looking at the numbers it seems as though the increase in the speed limit actually saves lives. From 1995 to 2005 American roads were actually safer even though we have many more distractions like cell phones. The increased speed limit seems to be making roads safer. I would have to agree since no one actually ever paid attention to the 55 speed limit of old.
When I moved to New Jersey in the late 90s the speed limit was 55, but the actual speed of the drivers was somewhere around 90. The roads were a bit scary to drive on at first because everyone was going so much faster than the speed limit. I was used to going 75 to 85, but 90 was an eye opener. Around 98/99 New Jersey raised the speed limit to 65, but the NJ Troopers enforced it much more than they did when it was 55. The result was that traffic moved slightly slower. Instead of 90, folks would drive at between 75-85.
New Jersey vs New York Driving
Driving in New Jersey vs. driving in upstate New York is radically different. In Upstate New York folsk ar emore laid back and don’t mind cruising in the fast lane in a slow speed. It is very frustrating when you are caught behind a driver that is drivng too slow for the fast lane. It impeeds traffic flow and in downright frustrating. In New Jersey I never experienced a fast lane hog phenomenon especially as you get close to New York City. Drivers seem to be more experienced and going fast does not seem to be such a problem. The fast lane is meant for passing.
In Upstate New York a driver’s personal space (space they need around the car) is much bigger than in New Jersey. The other day when I switched lanes, I was surprised to see the guy in the car behind me flip me the finger. My switch gave him plenty of room, but I guess he must have felt as if I cut him off. That same maneuver in New Jersey would not make anyone blink. In fact it is expected.
The differences between UNY and NJ are mostly due to population density. The roads are wide, free and there is not a great deal of traffic in Upstate New York. Meanwhile, in New Jersey the population is dense, the roads are a little smaller, but there are lots of folks on the road. You get used to the higher volumes of traffic and drive accordingly.
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