What is the speed limit in a city or town?

The speed limit in a city or town is generally set at 25 mph unless otherwise posted. This speed limit is established for safety reasons, as urban areas tend to have higher pedestrian traffic, cyclists, and intersections, which all pose potential hazards for drivers. Driving at 25 mph allows for better reaction time to unexpected events, such as children crossing the street or vehicles entering the roadway.

Lower speed limits help reduce the severity of accidents—at lower speeds, the impact forces are significantly reduced, thereby lessening the potential for injury or fatality. Additionally, many municipal areas may have specific regulations or adjustments to this standard speed limit based on local conditions; however, the common default is 25 mph. This is important for drivers to remember, as adhering to the speed limit is a key component of defensive driving and overall road safety.