Speed limiters continue to be a debate between groups that are all for it and those entirely against it. There are many things to consider when discussing speed limiters, but the common concept is that slower speeds decrease the chances of accidents on the road. While that may seem completely logical, as it’s been debated, it is not entirely true.
Without intending it, slower speed limits may cause an increase in the accident rate since it increases interactions between vehicles, therefore increasing the probability of accidents.
Even though this debate continues, what’s most important is that all the involved are concerned about the truck driver’s safety and strive to create a safe environment, decreasing the chances of accidents on the road.
But before we continue discussing this topic, let’s understand what speed limiters refer to.
What are speed limiters?
Speed limiters are governors added to a vehicle’s engine to limit its top speed, and they are mostly used in large trucks. One of the main reasons they are used is to increase fuel economy.
A couple of years ago, in partnership with the Road Safe America Group, the ATA suggested the requirement of speed limiters of 60, 65, or 68 m.p.h. on all vehicles over 26,000 pounds. This would ensure safety on the roads, avoiding any accident caused by speeding.
Naturally, this request stirred a lot of conversation, and many were entirely against it. For instance, the Owner-Operator Independent Driver Association (OOIDA) argued that speed limiters would “increase congestion and speed differentials between trucks and cars, which ultimately lead to more crashes.”
Now that we understand what speed limiters are and what the discussion is about let’s talk about the pros and cons.
Pros of governed truck speed limit
1. Safety
As mentioned, the first benefit, and the one everyone strives for, is safety. The logical concept is that with reduced speed, the chances of an accident occurring, decrease. It has been reported that the primary cause of most fatal crashes is speed; therefore, limiting it would naturally decrease the accident rate. A study by the FMCSA showed that trucks with limiters have a 50% lower crash rate compared to vehicles without limiters.
2. Fuel Efficiency
It is also logical to assume that cutting down a vehicle’s speed will save fuel since the vehicle would not have to work as hard to pick up higher speeds. Fuel efficiencies can also be achieved by maintaining a steady speed during long periods, ultimately depending on the driver’s expertise.
3. Reduced emissions
It is also mentioned that with slower speeds come reduced emissions. In simple terms, driving your vehicles faster means more fuel; hence, you produce more carbon dioxide. Therefore, if you move slower, you produce less carbon dioxide.
Cons of governed truck speed limit
1. Unintended safety issues
After analyzing the real effects of lowering truck speed, it had been found that the higher the speed differential between trucks and other vehicles, the higher the number of interactions between vehicles, which equals higher accident involvement risks. The more the vehicles interact, the higher the chances of accidents happening.
In fact, according to a study by Dr. Steven Johnson from the University of Arkansas, “the frequency of interaction with other vehicles by a vehicle driving 10 m.p.h. below the posted speed limit is 227% higher than when moving at traffic speeds.”
2. Traffic Congestion
Another valid argument against speed limiters is that they may increase traffic congestion, generating time loss, not only for truck drivers but for other vehicles on the road. This may lead to other issues, such as frustration and bad driving decisions when surpassing another vehicle or truck.
The OOIDA argues that putting speed limiters on trucks will “increase congestion and speed differentials between trucks and cars, which ultimately lead to more crashes.” Also, these speed limiters will make surpassing or switching lanes more difficult and dangerous since they would not exceed the speed limit to accomplish these maneuvers faster.
3. Increased emissions
Even though it is thought that by driving slower, the fuel consumption decreases, so there are fewer emissions, it increases emissions since because of the traffic congestions, there will be more speed adjustments required by other vehicles around the trucks. Even if the truck itself is reducing its emissions, others must maneuver around the traffic jam, creating more emissions.
4. Major Loss for small owner-operators
Speed limiters ultimately increase the time it takes to deliver freight; it extends the transportation process, affecting the entire business. Customers want and require fast delivery and adding speed limiters would work against that. Meaning, small owner-operators will most likely lose customers because they cannot meet more demanding deadlines.
The OOIDA suggests that instead of speed limiters and restrictions, truck drivers should have more robust training programs, so they have the required skills to drive safely, as well as tickets and fines for those who operate unsafely.
5. Increased pressure on truck drivers
One of the most important cons of speed limiters is the increased stress, and pressure truck drivers must assume to meet their deadlines and make up for the lost time during their journey due to lower speeds. Driver’s health is essential for their productivity; if they are constantly under pressure, they won’t be able to meet the requirements, especially with speed limiters slowing down the transportation process.
There are many pros and cons to speed limiters, but it’s essential to understand that what is most important is driver safety, and ensuring overall road safety at the end of the day. Even though profitability and meeting deadlines are crucial, what needs to be top-of-mind is the integrity of the driver.