Worcester Democrat And The Ledger Enterprise

SPEED-THE GREAT KILLER

During recent years a number of states have adopted the "basic rule" speed law-a measure whereby no fixed maximum highway speed is prescribed, but drivers are required to operate their vehicles with due care. Today in many of those states motor vehicle officials are coming to the view that the basic rule has failed, and that a fixed speed law, rigidly enforced, is necessary to the prevention of accidents. The national organization which studied highway legislation and first advocated the basic rule, has now changed its position, and urges fixed speed limits.

So the motorist has failed in his responsibility under a law which gave the individual wide leeway in his driving habits. Speed is still the great highway killer, breeding more violent deaths than any other driving error. It is a harsh commentary on drivers that the bulk of fatal automobile accidents occur on first class, straight highways, under good weather and visibility conditions, and involve cars in passable mechanical condition. Speed-the insane instinct to "open her up"-is the answer.

It is apparent that the automobile death and injury rate will continue to climb until all states cooperate to modernize their traffic codes in the light of modern conditions. Appeals to the motorist's instincts of self-preservation and public responsibility, have produced some results-but much more must be done. Speeds must be reduced. And the offending driver must be punished under laws enforced without fear or favoritism.