Quinn Boosts IL Interstate Speed Limit To 70 mph

Illinois Motorists will be able to drive a little faster on Illinois' rural interstates under legislation signed into law yesterday by Gov. Pat Quinn, a move that puts that state in line with dozens of states that already have a 70 mph or higher speed limit. The law, effective in January, is targeted toward roadways in less populated areas and bumps up the speed limit from the current 65 mph. Eight counties with urban areas, including Chicago's Cook County, can opt out. The Illinois State Police and Quinn's transportation chief opposed the increase, arguing higher speeds would translate into more accidents, but neither pushed their objections. The measure had wide support on both sides of the aisle.