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§Traffic speeds did not significantly change and remained
consistent with other western states with
like conditions. Motorists continued to drive at
speeds they were comfortable with.
– Note: 7 years after arbitrary numeric speed
limits were reinstated, 85th percentile speeds remained within 1 mph - Great
Falls monitoring site
§The theory
behind posting speed limits on these classifications of highways is to reduce conflicts in traffic flow
caused by speed differential, thereby reducing
accidents.
§With the
expectation of higher speed differentials, multiple vehicle accident rates declined even though the actual
speeds did not change significantly.
§This suggests the improvements were the result of positive motorists behavior changes; courtesy and due
caution, not speed limits or differential
regulation.