The NSW Roads and Traffic Authority has strongly advocated reducing the speed limit on local roads from 60km/h to 50km/h. Some trials will begin in North Sydney and Mosman later this month. The reaction of most people would surely be … lucky people of North Sydney and Mosman.
The question should be asked, when will the ACT follow suit. Australia has among the highest speed limits for local roads. It was increased in 1964 from 30 miles per hour (48km/h) to 35 miles per hour (56km/h) as a recognition of the improvement in both roads and cars. Cars could stop more quickly. With metrification in 1974 it was round up to 60km/h.
The changes have been shown to be misguided. It may be that roads and the performance of cars have been improved and that has resulted in a fall in the accident rate, but a greater fall would have been achieved if the speed limit had remained lower. Denmark lowered the limit 10 years ago and the death rate fell 24 per cent. About 70 per cent of accident happen on local roads.
Force of impact and stopping distances increase disproportionately with speed. Travelling 10km/h less on local roads would not be a great inconvenience compared to the benefits of less chance f impact and far less damage if it happens. It would also cut noise, generally improve the environment in residential areas and discourage commuters from using local roads as thoroughfares. All the arguments are in favour of a 50km/h limit in residential areas.