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

Thursday’s Headlines Say It Ain’t So

Climate change is happening, whether you want to call it that or not.

November 13, 2025

St. Louis Competition Gets College Students Onboard Transit

Advocates pit five colleges together into a friendly competition to ride transit, highlighting its benefits.

November 13, 2025

Is Rad Power Bikes Riding into the Sunset?

The Seattle-based e-bike giant may close. It's a big deal for employees and customers.

November 12, 2025

House T&I Chair Vows ‘No Money for Bikes or Walking’ in Fed Transportation Bill

The outlook for active transportation won't be good if advocates don't stand up.

November 12, 2025

Wednesday’s Headlines Are Graded on a Curve

Maybe one reason the U.S. has so many traffic deaths is that it's so easy to get a driver's license compared to other countries.

November 12, 2025
See all posts