The speed limit on East 4th St has become a topic of concern. After two separate vehicle accidents occurred at the same general area within a week, the question was asked, is the speed limit in that area the cause of common accidents?
Starting east of Belmont, the speed limit of East 4th increases from 30 to 40 MPH, near Gary’s Super Foods is a common area for accidents in which authorities suggest, is caused by poor speed judgment by drivers pulling out of area parking lots.
The severity of accidents along East 4th has increased because of the speed limit, according to the North Platte Police Department’s Lt. Hoaglund, “People need to be more cautious knowing they’re entering a roadway that’s got a higher speed limit” Hoaglund explains and continues, “If you have to wait another fifteen seconds, it’s better than waiting another fifteen weeks to get your vehicle fixed.”
The speed limit has been 40 for over 35 years, said Hoaglund, who believes the speed limit is a legitimate speed for that area because of the amount of traffic that passes through East 4th each day.
Defensive driving is always a good idea when on the street with other motorists. There is only so much an agency can do to protect motorists on the roads. Drivers have the best shot at preventing accidents when they use good judgment and caution while operating a vehicle.