Definition of speed limit

The term "speed limit" initially emerged in the United States during the late 1960s and early 1970s, in response to the rising number of accidents and fatalities caused by excessive driving speeds. In 1965, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) was created, and its primary responsibility was to improve road safety. In 1966, the NHTSA set up a committee to address the issue of high-speed driving and recommend measures to reduce accidents. This committee proposed mandatory speed limits for highways, which were enacted by states to curb the dangers associated with high speeds. The term "speed limit" itself was coined to instill a sense of compliance and obedience. The word "limit" suggested a maximum allowable speed restricting drivers' behavior and promoting safety, while "speed" signifies the velocity of the vehicle. Thus, "speed limit" denoted a regulatory mechanism aimed at securing safety and ensuring conformity to legal norms. The adoption of speed limits has since become a widespread phenomenon, and the concept has now been adopted in various countries worldwide. In essence, the origin of the term "speed limit" serves as an exemplification of the importance of road safety and the need for regulatory constraints to govern vehicular behavior.