I'm not saying you're trying to deflect the argument, only that it's a commonly used diversion.
The reasons for having speed limits in the first place are numerous:
1) Humans are not infallible. The consequences of a driving error are less serious at lower speed.
2) Vehicles fail. The consequences of such a failure are less serious at lower speeds.
3) The imposition of speed limits equalises the speed of traffic, which is inherently safer (lower closing speeds) than allowing drivers to select their own upper limit.
4) Vehicles use less fuel at lower speeds.
5) Traffic flows better at constant speed.
6) Our economy is heavily reliant on people's ability to travel from A to B when they see fit. As it stands, the benefit of mobolising people outweighs the benefit of a stricter driving test. As such, we have to allow for a range of abilities and the only practical way to this is to limit speeds on the roads.
7) Pedestrians are poor at judging the speed of oncoming traffic. The chances of both the pedestrian and the driver taking successful evasive action are higher the lower the speed of the vehicle.
8) People are irresponsible. Irrespective of how strict the driving test is, people do their own thing when no longer being observed/examined. This includes driving too fast for the conditions. Enforced speed limits go some way to stopping this.
9) I could go on if you wish....
Now answer my question:
What are the negatives of upper speed limits; either economic, societal or safety based? Why not have them?
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