What are Speed Limit Signs?
Every driver sees the dreaded speed limit sign on the highway. It informs us that we are probably going too fast and need to slow down,or we are stuck in standstill traffic when the speed limit is 60 MPH. For most, the speed limit sign is seen as a detriment and a negative rather than being of actual good use. Most countries have speed limit signs for safety measures and the United States is the leading provider of speed limit signs across their national highway system.
Things to Know About Speed Limit Signs
Even something as simple and every day as a speed limit sign has a history. Here are 5 fun facts you should know about speed limits and speed limit signs.
1-The First Speed Limit Sign was Introduced in the 1860s
Speed limits existed before the use of motorized vehicles, but these usually involved arbitrary terms like “gallop.” The first numeric speed limit sign for road vehicles was introduced in the United Kingdom in 1861, where drivers were required to go 10 MPH or under.
2-Australian Speed Limit Signs Look Different
In America, our speed limit signs are a white rectangle with the limit posted in black text. In the U.K., they tend to be a white circle with a red outline and the number posted in black. Australian speed limit signs seem to combine the two. These signs are rectangular but have a red circle on a white background.
3-Digital Speed Limit Signs Serve Different Purposes
Digital speed limit signs do more than simply post the speed limit. These are used to change the speed limit based on the time of day and the overall flow of traffic. They can also help enforce speed limits in neighborhoods. When paired with a radar, they can even let law enforcement know which areas tend to see more speeding and need to be patrolled more.
4-Parts of the Autobahn Have No Speed Limit Signs
In Germany, large portions of the autobahn do not have posted speed limit signs. While there are recommended speed limits of 80MPH, on an average day, drivers will exceed 93 MPH.
5 Some European Cars Have a Feature Called Intelligent Speed Adaptation
Intelligent Speed Adaptation is a built-in technology some European cars feature that can process the speed limits of the road they are on and inform the driver if they are going too fast. This technology has yet to arrive in the States.
Speed Limit and Regulatory Signs from Municipal Supply & Sign Co.
Municipal Supply & Sign Co. is one of the largest metal sign suppliers of traffic and safety signs and products in the Southeastern United States. We carry a wide inventory of regulatory signs, including speed limit signs. Browse now to find important speed limit signs for roads, parking lots, and more. If you need help finding the right sign or have any questions, please contact us today.