This week, a higher speed limit took effect on a part of the H.E. Bailey Turnpike in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) announced that new speed limit signs were set up on Thursday, April 18, along the I-44/H.E. Bailey Turnpike, spanning from Chickasha to Lawton in Comanche, Caddo, and Grady counties.
These new signs raise the speed limit to 80 miles per hour for a 59-mile stretch along the turnpike. The OTA mentioned that the portion of I-44/H.E. Bailey between Newcastle and Chickasha had already been marked for 80 mph in the summer of 2020.
However, the speed limit on I-44/H.E. Bailey from Lawton to the Texas state line will remain at 75 miles per hour.
While numerous drivers welcomed the higher speed limit, the trucking industry showed less enthusiasm due to concerns about the potential hazards arising from speed differentials. Here’s some of their feedback:
“Some semis are still limited to 55 and 60… lol, my truck is capped at 68.” “What a brilliant move. With heavy truck traffic and cars zooming at that speed and even faster, accidents are practically guaranteed.” “sobs quietly with a governed engine” “Mega carriers need to adapt quickly because now everyone’s safety is on the line.” “Mega carriers be like, ‘We’re sticking to 55, lol.'”
