The Speed Limit in Texas Might Now Alter While You’re Driving | Carscoops

      Texas is introducing digital speed limit signs that adjust in real-time based on weather, traffic, and dangers, with new guidelines already in place on some roads.

      Texas is implementing variable speed limits in response to traffic and weather conditions.

      New digital signs are able to decrease highway speeds by up to 10 mph.

      The implementation of real-time speed limits follows a tragic accident in 2021.

      The speed limits on Texas roads are set to become more advanced. To enhance highway safety and adapt to current conditions, state officials have begun a broader rollout of variable speed limits. This change comes in the wake of a devastating crash in 2021 that highlighted the inadequacies of fixed speed limits during severe weather and other unforeseen hazards.

      The concept is not new, but it was only recently approved in Texas. Two years prior, lawmakers sanctioned the installation of variable speed signs, which can adjust posted limits based on road circumstances. Following a pilot program, drivers statewide will soon notice an increase in the presence of these digital signs.

      The Incident That Sparked Change

      A decisive moment occurred during a severe winter storm that caused a multi-vehicle crash on I-35W. Despite temperatures being below freezing for more than 36 hours, the speed limits remained at 75 mph in toll lanes and 65 mph otherwise.

      Drivers failed to exercise enough caution, resulting in a 133-car pile-up and six fatalities. This incident was a significant catalyst for the 2023 legislation permitting variable speed limits.

      State Representative Terry Canales, who sponsored the bill, expressed that the ability to dynamically adjust speed limits could have impacted the crash's result. He indicated, "If we’re not able to alter or modify the speed limit to reflect the current conditions, safety is in jeopardy," as reported by the Texas Tribune. Now, the state is deploying these variable signs statewide.

      Locations for the New Signs

      The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is now empowered to temporarily lower speed limits when circumstances warrant it, including adverse weather, heavy traffic, roadwork, or any situation affecting safe travel. However, there is a restriction on how much the limit can be decreased, with reductions capped at 10 mph. Consequently, a 70 mph highway can only be reduced to 60 mph, and not to a much lower speed.

      As noted by Chron, the signs will first appear on highways already integrated into the Intelligent Transportation System, which utilizes sensors and cameras to monitor conditions. This capability allows authorities to confirm hazards, record when speed adjustments take place, and revert limits back to normal once conditions improve.

      For drivers, the key takeaway is to adhere to the displayed speed limit as they approach the sign. The posted limit is whatever number is currently illuminated. While this may resemble a perfect speed trap, it does not function as such. Changes to the speed limit are only enforceable when shown on a digital sign, overhead structure, or electronic message board.

      Sources: Chron, Texas Tribune | Photo: TxDOT