Effects on speeds of a rural variable speed limit system

Speed limits are generally created for ideal road conditions. When road conditions deteriorate, speed limits tend to become unreasonable, and enforcement of safe driving becomes difficult. Variable speed limit (VSL) systems are used to adjust speeds in accordance with the changing conditions in an attempt to reduce the variation of speeds among all vehicles. This research highlights the findings from the variable speed limit system in place along the Elk Mountain Corridor of I-80 in Southeastern Wyoming during the first full winter season of VSL implementation.