When Will the Chicago Speed Limit Drop to 25mph?

One question our Chicago car accident lawyers often hear from pedestrian accident victims is “when will the Chicago speed limit drop to 25mph?” Chicago could lower its default speed limit to 25 mph from 30 mph starting in January 2026, under a measure advanced by a City Council committee on October 21, 2024.

The City Council Committee on Pedestrian and Traffic Safety approved the measure by an 8-5 vote. The measure will now be voted on by the full City Council.

Chicago’s Speed Limit Dropping to 25mph Soon?

What Is the Reduced Speed Limit Ordinance?

Under the proposed speed limit measure, Chicago’s default speed limit on city streets would drop from 30 mph to 25 mph on residential streets and some smaller arterial roads, and to 20 mph in high pedestrian areas. Streets already below 30 mph would not be changed.

What Is the Current Chicago Speed Limit?

The current speed limit in Chicago is 30 mph on residential streets and 35 mph on arterial streets, unless otherwise posted.

Why Is This Change Being Proposed?

Chicago’s Vision Zero initiative is a citywide effort to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries, including pedestrian deaths, by 2026.

Pedestrian fatalities rise with larger, faster vehicles. SUVs cause more severe injuries, while higher speeds decrease reaction time, leading to more accidents and fatalities.

According to the city’s Department of Transportation’s (CDOT) annual report on traffic crashes, there were 136 traffic fatalities in 2023. The traffic deaths included cyclists, pedestrians, and people in vehicles.

In 2023, 68% of Chicago traffic fatalities involved speeding drivers. Nearly half of pedestrians struck by a vehicle and killed in Chicago were hit by SUVs or larger vehicles.

The City of Chicago report shows that pedestrian fatalities rise with vehicle size and speed. At 20 mph, 5% of pedestrians hit were killed, while at 30 mph, this increased to 40%.

What Are the Potential Benefits of a Lower Speed Limit?

Lowering Chicago’s speed limit to 25, could enhance safety by reducing accidents, creating safer streets for children, and calming traffic. It might also promote biking and walking, benefiting personal health and the environment.

What Are Some Criticisms of this Proposal?

There is support for speed reduction and improving street safety in Chicago, but critics argue that lowering speed limits alone may not suffice. They advocate for infrastructure changes like traffic calming and pedestrian-friendly crosswalks. Concerns also arise about lower speed limits causing driver frustration and increased congestion.

How Will the Proposed Chicago 20 mph Speed Limit Affect Drivers and Commuters?

Drivers and commuters must adjust their habits if the new speed limit is approved. This means allowing more travel time on most city streets, being aware of automated enforcement cameras, obeying speed limits, and watching for changes in traffic patterns.

Will There Be Any Exceptions to the Proposed 20mph Chicago Speed Limit?

The proposal includes exceptions for roads with dedicated bike lanes or commercial truck routes. These are intended to balance safety with practical transportation needs.

How Can I Stay Updated on the Status of the Chicago Speed Limit Proposal?

For updates on Chicago’s proposed speed limit change, visit Chicago’s official website, The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), follow local news, and attend public hearings. Stay informed about traffic laws to be aware of any changes.

Source: Feurer, Todd, and Shardaa Gray. 2024. “City Council Committee Backs Plan to Lower Chicago Default Speed Limit to 25 Mph.” CBS News. October 21, 2024. https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/speed-limit-ordinance-25-mph-city-council-traffic-committee/.