[net.auto] 55 MPH vs. accident rates

henry (12/02/82)

I remember reading that the early reports of "55 reduces accident rates!"
in fact were aberrations resulting from the gas shortage that provoked
the 55 limit.  The drop in accidents had nothing (or little) to do with
the speed, the major factor was that fewer people were driving.  I am
told that after the gas crisis ended, the accident rate went right back
up were it was before, 55 or no 55.  Can anybody quote the actual numbers?