On the Dash:
- Lawmakers are considering raising the minimum speed limit on roads posted at 65 mph or higher to 50 mph.
- Supporters argue that slow-moving vehicles can be as dangerous as speeding.
- The bill remains under review as lawmakers gather additional crash data.
Slower drivers may be forced to pick up the pace. Georgia lawmakers are considering raising the minimum speed limit on highways in an effort to improve traffic flow and reduce crashes. Under House Bill 809, the minimum speed would increase from 40 mph to 50 mph on highways where the posted speed limit is 65 mph or higher.
Supporters say the proposal targets slow-moving vehicles that can create safety hazards on high-speed roadways. While there are legitimate reasons to drive slower, such as during inclement weather, around school zones, and near railroad crossings, unnecessary slow driving on open highways can disrupt traffic and increase the risk of rear-end collisions. It can also force other motorists to make risky evasive maneuvers due to approaching the slower-moving vehicle faster than expected.
Col. William Hitchens, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Public Safety, noted that the Georgia State Patrol has seen a significant number of incidents involving slow-moving vehicles. In a letter sent last month to Rep. John Carson, R-Marietta, the sponsor of the proposal, Hitchens wrote, “Driving below the speed limit can, in some cases, be as dangerous as traveling above the posted speed limit.”
Carson said the measure is aimed at reducing serious crashes. “I want to limit the number of rear-end collisions,” he said. “I’ve received fatality reports… It’s horrific.”
Lawmakers backing the proposal believe increasing the minimum speed requirement during normal driving conditions could improve consistency in traffic flow and reduce avoidable accidents.
The updated minimum speed would only apply when conditions allow for safe, steady travel. Penalties for failing to adhere to the minimum speed limit would remain unchanged. Although the state allows fines up to $1,000, most local courts typically impose penalties between $100 and $200.
Several lawmakers, however, expressed concern that the proposal could unfairly burden student and senior drivers who may be more comfortable or only capable of driving at slower speeds.
The House Motor Vehicles Committee held a hearing on the bill on Tuesday but did not take a vote. Instead, members requested additional crash data and information on the potential costs of replacing highway speed limit signs before moving forward.
If approved, the legislation would mark a notable shift in Georgia’s highway safety policy, placing greater emphasis on maintaining minimum travel speeds alongside enforcing maximum limits.
