Skip to Content
Streetsblog USA home
Streetsblog USA home
Log In
Speed limits

Friday Video: Why Cities Around the World Are Reducing Speed Limits

"At some point, we have to realize that anybody fighting against lower speed limits in cities is either willfully ignorant, or they're a selfish asshole who values their convenience more than other people's safety."

Cities around the world are finally waking up to the laws of physics and dropping speed limits in places where people walk. But how are they tackling the political challenges of getting drivers to hit the brakes — and what are the other benefits of fighting those battles, especially as vehicles get larger?

ICYMI, this recent Not Just Bikes video breaks down the nuances of why lower speed limits (and good road designs to reinforce them) matter so much, including how high speeds effect the human brain, why noise pollution plummets when cars slow down, and why, paradoxically enough, faster limits often mean slower commutes for motorists.

Here's the money quote:

"At some point, we have to realize that anybody fighting against lower speed limits in cities is either willfully ignorant, or they're a selfish asshole who values their convenience more than other people's safety."

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog USA

Trump’s Canada Bridge Tantrum Could Be Bad News For An International Bike Trail

A multi-use trail along the Gordie Howe Bridge would be a key component of an epic cross-continental trail route — if Trump doesn't prevent the entire structure from opening.

February 17, 2026

Disturbing Utah ‘Bikelash’ Bill Takes Aim at Salt Lake City Traffic Calming

Utah state legislators aren't traffic engineers — so why are they writing laws that would force the review of specific bike lanes already on the roads in their capitol, and preemptively stop Salt Lake from building more?

February 17, 2026

The Explainer: How Big Tech Push For Cheap Car Insurance Hurts Victims

In New York State, Gov. Kathy Hochul is distorting the notion of "affordability" to do Big Tech's bidding.

February 17, 2026

Tuesday’s Headlines Let Kids Be Kids

Cops should not be arresting parents for letting their kids walk or bike around the neighborhood.

February 17, 2026

Monday’s Headlines Slow Down

Cities have proven measures they can put into place to slow down speeding drivers and save lives.

February 16, 2026

The New Uber-Backed Car Insurance ‘Reform’ Push Is Actually A War On Crash Victims

New York State Gov. Kathy Hochul wants to limit payouts to crash victims under the guise of "affordability" and bogus claims about "staged crashes."

February 13, 2026
See all posts