June 16, 2015 marked a milestone for Wisconsin motorists as it was the day that highway crews began installing 70 MPH speed limit signs along Wisconsin highways. Approximately 810 miles of Wisconsin highways will be affected by the newly increased speed limit once all is said and done. Crews began working early that Tuesday morning and are expected to install a total of 470 updated speed limit signs across the state.
In late May, Governor Scott Walker signed a law allowing the Department of Transportation to raise the speed limit on Wisconsin interstates and highways to 70 MPH. This move made Wisconsin the 39th state to allow the speed limits to be raised to 70 MPH or higher.
Higher Speeds Mean Increased Risks
Along with an increase in speeds comes additional risks to Wisconsin motorists. Some of these risks include more difficulty identifying and avoiding obstacles and a decreased ability to react and respond to hazards in the roadway. Perhaps most importantly, traveling at greater speeds will increase the force of impact during a collision causing a greater degree of property damage and injury.
A vast majority of drivers will admit to driving over the posted speed limit at some point in their lives. In fact, many of them will likely admit to speeding with some regularity. When a vehicle is already traveling at 70 MPH, any increase in speed – even just a couple miles per hour – creates a much greater risk of severe injuries resulting from a collision, which is precisely why this milestone Wisconsin roadway event is the perfect occasion to remind drivers of the dangers associated with speeding. In addition, as a result of the obvious risks associated with speeding, a driver in Wisconsin can be considered “negligent” and accordingly be held responsible for any damages caused by his or her negligent conduct.
Help For Motor Accident Victims
As Wisconsin motorists, we owe ourselves and all others on the road a duty to use the utmost caution in the operation of our motor vehicles. With increasing speed limits across the state, Wisconsin drivers must increase their vigilance to protect their own safety and the safety of others. If you are injured in a motor vehicle accident in Wisconsin, you may be able to be compensated for property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It is important to contact a Milwaukee personal injury attorney right away to ensure that your rights are protected.