VIDEO: How Are Speed Limits Set in Michigan?

Have you ever wondered who sets speed limits and how they determine that speed?

This 1-minute, easy-to-digest video from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and Michigan State Police (MSP) explains the process that state agencies use to set speed limits.

"We work closely with our partners in law enforcement to establish the safest speed limits possible for the benefit of all motorists," State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle said in a press release Wednesday.

"Our comprehensive analysis in determining speed limits relies heavily on identifying normal and safe driver behavior and whether or not a speed limit is realistic," MSP Director Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue said.

Speed studies are conducted to determine the 85th percentile speed and identify reasonable driver behavior for a particular stretch of roadway. The speed study is one part of an engineering and traffic investigation – a nationally accepted guideline for setting speed limits.

The survey team in the field also identifies and considers other factors, including traffic crash data, traffic volumes, roadside development, roadway configuration and condition, number of intersections and driveways, sidewalks, and any other factors that may influence all types of road users.

For more information on how speed limits are set, visit www.michigan.gov/speedlimits.

Source: Michigan Department of Transportation