An unrealistically low speed limit can actually lead to accidents. Here's why:

1. First, many studies conducted over several decades in all parts of the country have shown that a driver's speed is influenced more by the appearance of the roadway and the prevailing traffic conditions than it is by the posted speed limit.
2. Second, some drivers will obey the lower posted speed while others will feel it's unreasonable and simply ignore it. This disrupts the uniform traffic flow and increases accident potential between the faster and the slower drivers.
3. Third, when traffic is traveling at different speeds, the number of breaks in traffic to permit safe crossing is reduced. Pedestrians also have greater difficulty in judging the speed of approaching vehicles.

Florida Statutes, Chapter 316.183 deals with unlawful speed. This law states that "No person shall drive a vehicle on a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions, and having regard to the actual and potential hazards, then existing."

Florida Statutes, Chapter 316.187 authorizes the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to set maximum and minimum speed limits for travel over these roadways under its authority as it deems safe and advisable, not to exceed 60 miles per hour.

Florida Statutes, Chapter 316.189 presents the authority for establishment of municipal and County speed zones on roads maintained by these agencies. This section indicates that the maximum speed on any municipal or County-maintained road is 30 miles per hour. However, the municipality or County may set speed zones altering such speeds, both as to maximum and minimum after investigation determines such a change is reasonable and in conformity with Florida Department of Transportation criteria.