What is the maximum speed limit on most highways in Illinois?

The maximum speed limit on most highways in Illinois is 70 miles per hour. This limit applies to the rural interstates and other designated highways. The rationale for this speed is to balance safety with the efficient flow of traffic, allowing vehicles adequate speed to merge and maintain pace with other drivers. Various factors, such as road conditions, weather, and traffic density, can affect speed, but under normal circumstances, 70 miles per hour is the established maximum for highways. This limit is aimed at reducing the likelihood of accidents while also ensuring that drivers can travel at a reasonable speed. Lower speed limits, such as 55 or 60 miles per hour, typically apply to specific areas like residential zones or near schools, rather than on highways.