In a significant move to enhance road safety, the Dallas City Council has approved a reduction in speed limits on several major roadways, including a busy stretch of U.S. 75/Central Expressway. The decision, made on September 11, 2024, comes as part of the city’s ongoing efforts to reduce traffic accidents and fatalities.
The speed limit on U.S. 75 from Mockingbird Lane to Woodall Rogers Freeway will be lowered from 70 mph to 65 mph. This change was prompted by Council member Paul Ridley’s request for a speed study by the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) following reports of drivers exceeding 100 mph on the highway.
The decision gained additional urgency after a high-profile incident earlier this year involving Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice and SMU cornerback Teddy Knox. Both were reportedly traveling at speeds over 115 mph before a crash on Central Expressway which brought national attention to this issue.
In addition to U.S. 75, the council approved speed limit reductions on other busy roads:
- Great Trinity Forest Way:
- From Bonnie View Road/Sunnyvale Street to Wadsworth Drive: 40 mph
- From Wadsworth Drive to Pemberton Hill Road: 45 mph
- From Pemberton Hill Road to C.F. Hawn Freeway: 40 mph
- Ledbetter Drive: From I-35E to Bonnie View Road/Sunnyvale Street: 40 mph
- Buckner Boulevard: From Edgelake Drive to U.S. Route 175: 40 mph
Council member Jaime Resendez emphasized that these changes, particularly on Loop 12, are essential steps in addressing dangerous conditions on one of the city’s most accident-prone state highways. Meanwhile, Council member Paula Blackmon urged all drivers to adhere to the new speed limits.
These changes align with Dallas’ Vision Zero resolution, adopted in 2022, which aims to eliminate traffic fatalities and halve the number of serious traffic-related injuries by 2030. In cases of accidents or injuries, Dallas personal injury law firms can provide essential legal support, helping victims navigate the complexities of personal injury claims and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
Please note that the new speed limits will not take effect immediately. TXDOT will need to update the signage before the changes become official. Drivers are advised to stay alert for these upcoming modifications and adjust their driving habits accordingly to promote safer roads for all Dallas residents and visitors.
