North Carolina RADAR State Practice Exam 2025 - Free RADAR Practice Questions and Study Guide

The first automobile speed regulation enacted in 1901 set the speed limits at 12 mph in the country and 8 mph within city limits. This law marked a significant step in regulating automobile traffic, reflecting the concerns of the time regarding safety and the increasing presence of motor vehicles on public roads.

The limits established were notably conservative, particularly in urban areas where pedestrian traffic was higher, emphasizing the need for caution as automobiles began to fill the streets. The differentiation between rural and city limits was also practical, allowing for slightly higher speeds where traffic was less dense.

This regulation laid the groundwork for future traffic laws and speed limits, illustrating the evolving relationship between automobiles and public safety. Understanding this historical context is crucial for grasping how traffic regulations developed over time in response to the growing influence of automobiles.