Variable Speed Limits Are Coming to Texas Highways
A Laredo car accident lawyer explains what you need to know
Drivers across Texas may soon notice something new on the roads: speed limits that change in real time. Digital signs displaying different speed limits are beginning to appear on Texas highways as part of a new initiative known as variable speed limits. The goal is to reduce car accidents by temporarily lowering speed limits when driving conditions become more dangerous.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) recently began installing electronic speed limit signs along Interstate 35 in Fort Worth, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Motorists have also reported seeing similar signs along U.S. Route 54 in El Paso. While TxDOT has not yet confirmed where these signs may appear next, the program could eventually expand to other parts of the state, including South Texas.
Why is Texas going to variable speed limits?
The initiative stems from a Texas law passed in 2023 that allows TxDOT to adjust speed limits temporarily without first obtaining approval from the Texas Transportation Commission – a process that can take significant time. Under the new law, TxDOT engineers can lower speed limits quickly when conditions make driving less safe, such as during heavy rain, fog, icy conditions, major traffic backups, or road construction.
When a temporary speed limit is in effect, the updated speed limit will be displayed on overhead or roadside electronic signs. By law, the reduced speed limit must be posted between 500 and 1,000 feet before it takes effect, giving drivers notice and time to slow down.
What are the dangers of speeding?
Speeding is already one of the leading causes of serious car accidents in Texas. When drivers travel too fast for road, traffic, or weather conditions, their ability to react drops sharply. Even a small increase in speed can mean the difference between avoiding a collision and suffering severe injuries.
Variable speed limits are designed to reduce crashes by encouraging drivers to slow down when conditions are risky. Unfortunately, not all drivers pay attention to these warnings. When someone ignores a reduced speed limit and causes a crash, the consequences can be devastating – especially in high-speed collisions involving trucks or multiple vehicles.
How do speeding violations affect injury claims?
When a crash occurs under variable-speed conditions, speed becomes a critical factor in determining fault. If a driver was traveling above a posted temporary speed limit, that violation can significantly strengthen an injury claim. Speeding evidence may include electronic sign data, crash reports, witness statements, and vehicle data.
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by blaming road conditions or claiming accidents were unavoidable. However, failing to obey reduced speed limits can show clear negligence.
How can a car accident lawyer help if you've been injured in a speed-related crash?
After a serious accident, victims are often left dealing with medical bills, lost income, and uncertainty about what comes next. That’s where an experienced Laredo personal injury lawyer can make a difference. An attorney can investigate the crash, gather evidence of speeding or unsafe driving, and hold negligent drivers accountable.
At John R. Solis, Attorney at Law, we understand how quickly evidence can disappear and how aggressively insurance companies defend these cases. We step in early, handle communications, and fight for full compensation for our clients. With a free consultation and no fees unless we win, injured drivers and families can focus on recovery while we focus on justice.
If you were injured in a speeding-related accident, legal help is available. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.
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