COLUMBUS--Ohio is moving into the fast lane, and likely joining other states with a 70 mph speed limit.
The speed limit on rural stretches of Ohio's interstates would rise to 70 mph, under the State Legislature's latest version of the Transportation Budget Bill.
Wednesday the State Senate approved the increase, and now the deal is headed to the House for its likely passage on Thursday.
"Its been 65 mph for years, its been like decades, so yeah its about time." John Farrell said.
Farrell is pleased lawmakers are very close to a deal that would raise the speed limit from 65 mph to 70 mph along our highways.
Farrell said if drivers just obey the posted speed limit, it won't be a problem.
"If people are careful , they aren't gonna have an accident , its the people who are weaving in and out and not using signals and stuff like that."
The 70 mph zones would only be on rural stretches of interstates, outside of cities.
Sgt. Brian Aller from the Ohio State Highway patrol has advice for drivers.
"Just be aware of your surroundings, and always watch signs. Depending on construction zones, it could go from 55, up to 70, and back down again, so you better watch yourself." He said.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol said studies have shown that the 70 mph speed limits don't cause higher accident rates, but it still scares some drivers.
"I don't think 70 is a good idea." Rick Wildermuch said. "They'll be going 80 if its 70. It will take you further to stop, and then you get bad weather, and ice and everything."
The speed limit on rural stretches of Ohio's interstates would rise to 70 mph, under the State Legislature's latest version of the Transportation Budget Bill.
Wednesday the State Senate approved the increase, and now the deal is headed to the House for its likely passage on Thursday.
"Its been 65 mph for years, its been like decades, so yeah its about time." John Farrell said.
Farrell is pleased lawmakers are very close to a deal that would raise the speed limit from 65 mph to 70 mph along our highways.
Farrell said if drivers just obey the posted speed limit, it won't be a problem.
"If people are careful , they aren't gonna have an accident , its the people who are weaving in and out and not using signals and stuff like that."
The 70 mph zones would only be on rural stretches of interstates, outside of cities.
Sgt. Brian Aller from the Ohio State Highway patrol has advice for drivers.
"Just be aware of your surroundings, and always watch signs. Depending on construction zones, it could go from 55, up to 70, and back down again, so you better watch yourself." He said.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol said studies have shown that the 70 mph speed limits don't cause higher accident rates, but it still scares some drivers.
"I don't think 70 is a good idea." Rick Wildermuch said. "They'll be going 80 if its 70. It will take you further to stop, and then you get bad weather, and ice and everything."