01-05-2017, 01:48 AM
I think most speed limits in the US are by-and-large set competently for the type of road conditions we have and the drivers that we are. Generally I believe they are set at the 85th percentile of speed that the traffic moves of its own accord. So for the upper 85th percentile of drivers who move faster...most speed limits seem to be too low.
US drivers in the main do not take driving seriously and also are largely incompetent due to weak training and licensing regimes (which are that way because politically Americans believe driving is a virtual human right).
I have traveled in Germany extensively and the level of driving is on a much higher niveau. Visiting Americans perceive Germans as abrupt, aggressive drivers, merely because Germans are not afraid to use the accelerator, the brake, and the handling capabilities of their machines...and they do it well. They also pay close attention to driving tasks, because to not pay attention is not an option. The signage is complicated, the traffic dense and variable, and the speed limits change on a continual as you drive through towns and countryside.
I do not think that speed in and of itself is dangerous. It's more about maintaining control of the vehicle under all conditions seen and unforeseen. If you lose control of your vehicle, chances are you were going too fast for conditions.
I'll admit to speeding on my motorcycle when conditions are clear and it is safe to do so. I've been nailed once and there was no excuse. I paid my money, took my points, and waited for them to be expunged over time.
US drivers in the main do not take driving seriously and also are largely incompetent due to weak training and licensing regimes (which are that way because politically Americans believe driving is a virtual human right).
I have traveled in Germany extensively and the level of driving is on a much higher niveau. Visiting Americans perceive Germans as abrupt, aggressive drivers, merely because Germans are not afraid to use the accelerator, the brake, and the handling capabilities of their machines...and they do it well. They also pay close attention to driving tasks, because to not pay attention is not an option. The signage is complicated, the traffic dense and variable, and the speed limits change on a continual as you drive through towns and countryside.
I do not think that speed in and of itself is dangerous. It's more about maintaining control of the vehicle under all conditions seen and unforeseen. If you lose control of your vehicle, chances are you were going too fast for conditions.
I'll admit to speeding on my motorcycle when conditions are clear and it is safe to do so. I've been nailed once and there was no excuse. I paid my money, took my points, and waited for them to be expunged over time.