Speed Management | February 2021

Speedometer. Source: Abobe Stock

ACTION

In 2014, nearly 30 percent of total traffic fatalities in Oregon were related to speeding. In the Summer of 2016, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) responded by completing the development of a Speed Management Action Plan (SMAP) to address the traffic fatalities its roadway system was experiencing. The plan integrates opportunities for speed management statewide, suggests guidance for setting effective and appropriate speed limits, and promotes strategies and countermeasures to reduce speeding-related crashes.

RESULT

Through the SMAP experience, ODOT fostered collaboration with numerous stakeholders and has effectively integrated its SMAP into other State safety plans. This has made ODOT’s safety vision more cohesive and consistent with other agency modal plans, each recognizing that appropriate vehicle speed is pivotal to improving safety for all road users. Through the SMAP, ODOT is balancing the safety needs of a mix of road users, improving data, and focusing on the implementation of proven safety countermeasures. ODOT’s strong safety vision and implementation of its speed management action plan is keeping safety at the forefront.

RESOURCES

Developing a Speed Management Action Plan Piece by Piece

Speed Management Action Plan Implementation: The Oregon Experience