GRAIN VALLEY, Mo. – April 7, 2009  – Years of research, testimonies, meetings, phone calls and letters finally paid off for all who drive in the state of Ohio.  The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) is relieved trucks will soon be able to travel at the same speed as cars throughout Ohio interstates, which is safer for all highway users.

“The only speed limit policy that makes sense is to have all vehicles traveling at the same speed, which is exactly why we’ve pursued this issue for several years,” said Todd Spencer, executive vice-president of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association. “We are appreciative of the lawmakers listening to our members and ultimately resolving it.”

Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland signed a two-year, $9.6 billion transportation budget last week. It included a provision that does away with split speed limits on interstates, effective July 1.

Right now, with the exception of the Ohio Turnpike, trucks are limited to 55 mph while cars can travel at 65 mph on Ohio interstates. 

The Association conducted its own extensive research and concluded that the difference in vehicle speeds, not excessive speed, contributes to accidents. Collisions occur when trucks and cars must change lanes and pass more frequently.

Owner-operator and OOIDA member Lewie Pugh of Freeport, Ohio, was pleased to hear about the action of lawmakers. He said that truckers in the state have touted for years the safety benefits of all vehicles traveling the same speed.  

“I think it’s a great thing in the name of safety for everybody. It will help move commerce and help move traffic more freely in the state,” Pugh said. “It’s been a long time coming.”

The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association is the largest national trade association representing the interests of small-business trucking professionals and professional truck drivers. OOIDA was established in 1973 and is headquartered in the greater Kansas City, Mo. area. The Association currently has more than 160,000 members from all 50 states and Canada.

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