January 2nd, 2020
Anniversary of the presidential order requiring a set speed limit. The 55 mph National Maximum Speed Limit was established by Congress in January 1974; prior states had individual speed limits. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that "analysis of available data showed that the 55 NMSL forestalled 48,310 fatalities through 1980. There were also reductions in crash-related injuries and property damage." Motor fuel savings were estimated at 2.4 billion gallons per year. Notwithstanding, in 1987 Congress permitted states to increase speed limits on rural interstate highways up to 65 mph.
Source: www.history.com/this-day-in-history/nixon-signs-national-speed-limit-into-law
