Speed limits across the United States vary widely, with some states allowing drivers to travel at speeds exceeding 80 MPH. While Texas is known for having the highest posted speed limit in the country at 85 MPH, what about Alabama? Are there any roads in the Heart of Dixie where you can legally drive that fast? This article examines Alabama’s speed regulations, the factors influencing them, and whether an 85 MPH limit could be implemented in the future.

What Is the Maximum Speed Limit in Alabama?

Currently, Alabama’s highest posted speed limit is 70 MPH. This limit applies to select sections of interstate highways and rural roads, including portions of I-65, I-20, I-59, and I-85. Unlike Texas, Alabama does not have any roads where the speed limit exceeds 70 MPH, meaning there are no legal roads with an 85 MPH speed limit in the state.

Why Doesn’t Alabama Have an 85 MPH Speed Limit?

There are several reasons why Alabama has not adopted an 85 MPH speed limit on any of its roadways:

1. Safety Concerns – Research shows that higher speed limits increase accident severity. The faster a vehicle moves, the longer it takes to stop, making accidents more dangerous and fatal.
2. Road Infrastructure – Many of Alabama’s roads, particularly in rural areas, were not designed to accommodate speeds above 70 MPH.
3. Legislative Restrictions – The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) and state lawmakers would need to approve an increase, but no bills or proposals have been introduced to raise the limit beyond 70 MPH.
4. Law Enforcement Opposition – State troopers and safety advocates argue that higher speed limits would make enforcing traffic laws more difficult, potentially leading to more reckless driving and fatal crashes.

How Does Alabama Compare to Neighboring States?

While Alabama’s maximum speed limit is 70 MPH, some of its neighboring states have slightly higher limits:

• Mississippi: Allows up to 70 MPH on interstate highways.
• Tennessee: Also has a 70 MPH maximum speed limit.
• Georgia: Permits up to 70 MPH on some highways, with exceptions allowing 75 MPH on select interstates.
• Florida: The state’s highest speed limit is 70 MPH, similar to Alabama.

Unlike western states such as Texas and Utah, no Southeastern state has implemented an 85 MPH speed limit.

Could Alabama Raise Its Speed Limit in the Future?

There have been occasional discussions about increasing Alabama’s highway speed limits, particularly on long, rural interstates where traffic is sparse. Advocates argue that:

• Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features, such as automatic braking and lane assistance, making higher speeds safer.
• Many drivers already exceed the posted limits, meaning a higher speed limit could align with real-world driving habits.
• Higher speed limits could improve traffic flow and reduce congestion.

However, opponents argue that increasing the speed limit would lead to higher accident rates, greater fuel consumption, and increased road maintenance costs. As of now, no official proposals have been introduced to raise the limit beyond 70 MPH.

What Happens If You Drive 85 MPH in Alabama?

Since Alabama’s highest posted speed limit is 70 MPH, driving at 85 MPH is considered speeding. The severity of the penalty depends on how much you exceed the limit:

• Less than 10 MPH over: Typically results in a small fine.
• 10-19 MPH over: Can lead to a larger fine and points on your driving record.
• 20+ MPH over: May be classified as reckless driving, leading to heavier fines, possible license suspension, or even jail time.

To avoid penalties and ensure road safety, always follow posted speed limits and adjust your speed based on road and weather conditions.

The Debate Over Higher Speed Limits

Discussions about raising Alabama’s speed limits continue, with arguments both for and against:

Arguments in Favor of Raising the Speed Limit

• Safer Vehicles: Modern cars have adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, and better stability control, making high-speed driving less dangerous.
• Realistic Driving Patterns: Many drivers already exceed the 70 MPH limit, making an increase more reflective of actual road behavior.
• Economic Benefits: Higher speed limits could reduce travel time for truckers, commuters, and long-distance travelers.

Arguments Against Raising the Speed Limit

• Increased Fatalities: Studies show that higher speed limits lead to more severe accidents and fatalities.
• Greater Fuel Consumption: Vehicles use more fuel at higher speeds, making an increase environmentally and economically costly.
• Road Maintenance Costs: Faster speeds cause more road wear and tear, leading to higher repair and maintenance expenses.

Conclusion

Despite discussions about higher speed limits, Alabama currently maintains a maximum limit of 70 MPH. There are no roads in the state where an 85 MPH speed limit is legally permitted. Factors such as safety concerns, road infrastructure, and legislative restrictions have prevented Alabama from adopting higher speed limits. While future changes are possible, no official efforts to raise the limit beyond 70 MPH are currently in progress.

For more details on Alabama’s traffic laws and speed limits, visit the Alabama Department of Transportation at dot.state.al.us.

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