A higher speed limit would pose hazards

A proposed 70 mph speed limit (“State Testing 70-mph Limit on Parts of Two Interstates,” July 24)? I’d like to offer several points for consideration.

Cars and trucks have been flying off the roads and into houses, businesses, poles, etc., at seemingly increased frequency. At higher speeds, the control of a vehicle is harder to maintain.

Gas mileage decreases. Unless the little display on my car is lying to me, my mileage drops appreciably when driving in West Virginia as opposed to Pennsylvania. This metric is contingent upon maintaining the posted speed limit, which I do. I’ve never had a ticket and I cannot afford one.

My observation is that most drivers exceed the posted speed limit regardless. Eighty-plus mph will be the new 70.

With regard to new licensees, there is a much greater degree of skill and attention required to drive at higher speeds; add cell phones, texting and distracting dashboard displays into the mix for a real devil’s brew.

Pennsylvania has an older population; older drivers do not have the same skill set as they once had. I know — I am one of the aforementioned.

Then there is the decreased speed limit on highways and roads around most towns. There are times I find myself suddenly driving 15 mph over the last posted speed limit that I observed. Traffic moves better at a uniform speed. Older drivers should remember the turnpike’s dubious 65 mph for cars and 55 mph for trucks, which were eventually done away with.

If this proposed increase is just a way to burn more gas and issue more speeding tickets, then go ahead State of Pennsylvania, increase the speed limit. It is a way of thinning out the herd. If public safety is of concern, please consider the population that will be at increased risk for accidents and fatalities and do not change the current speed limit. ROBB TRAPPEN

Arnold