Increased speed limits 'hard to defend,' say researchers

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2024-08-02 00:01

New Zealand

Image by Dan Gold via UnSplash

New Zealand researchers say proposed speed limit increases are 'hard to defend' based on global evidence. National and international studies have shown that increased speed limits cause more road deaths, and that traffic injuries are the main cause of severe trauma in Aotearoa. In a New Zealand Medical Journal editorial, the authors note that these risks disproportionately affect those who have less access to cars and face more healthcare barriers, including Māori and Pacific children, older people, and disabled people. They say that the likelihood of more deaths and injuries, worsened air quality, and health impacts from raising speed limits are too significant to ignore.

Media release

From: Pasifika Medical Association Group

The current proposal to raise speed limits on our roads is hard to defend given what we know about the probable consequences. The likely outcome of increased deaths and injuries, worsened air quality and heightened health impacts are too significant to ignore. The state has a responsibility to assure collective health interests and avoid third-party harm, particularly to children and other vulnerable road users. It is imperative that we prioritise road safety, environmental sustainability and public health in any discussions or decisions regarding speed limits on our roadways.

Journal/
conference: New Zealand Medical Journal

Organisation/s: University of Otago, University of Auckland, Moana Connect

Funder: SA has received project grants relating to child injury funded by the Health Research Council of New Zealand and the Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Foundation. JH has received HRC project grant: Health and equity impacts of Te Ara Mua Future Streets.

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