bauern@houxa.UUCP (06/22/84)
<munch,munch,chomp> One thing that wasn't brought up yet was overall cost of 55 mph. Perhaps 55 mph does save gas, but my car got 5 mpg better doing 70-75 in a cross country trip than the normal 60 mph I do on the Parkway here. (maybe my speedo needs recalibration?) However, on those long trips, the additional time taken to drive at the slower speed is significant. And as every good American knows, time means greenbacks. Also, that extra time on the road gives a greater probability that the driver will be fatigued before the end of the trip, which increases the likelyhood of an accident. There are trakeoffs here. When I was in Germany, I noticed two things. One, wow do people drive fast on the Autobahn. Two, the drivers are disciplined and alert, they don't turn around and talk to people in the back seat while driving, or stare blankly into space. And they are also more considerate (just don't try to cut a Porsche off :-) ). As a long distance trekker (hey I'd take public transportation if it was faster and cheaper, but it's neither here and both there) I'd like to see the limit go back up, but I'm afraid to see what would happen when all those who can't drive at 55 tried to drive at 75. (Scotty shields up!!) Buckle up and live, Drinking and Driving DON'T Mix Keep Right, Pass Left ..houxa!bauern