What is the speed limit in a thickly settled or business district?

The speed limit in a thickly settled or business district is typically established at 25 mph in Massachusetts. This limit is set to promote safety in areas where pedestrians, cyclists, and a higher volume of traffic are present. The reduced speed allows drivers more time to react to potential hazards, such as children crossing the street or vehicles entering and exiting from parking spaces.

Higher speed limits, such as the ones associated with 30 mph, 35 mph, and 40 mph, are generally designated for less densely populated areas or roadways where the risk of pedestrian conflict is lower. These higher limits do not apply in areas where more cautious driving is critical due to the nature of the environment. Therefore, while 30 mph is a common limit on some roadways, in thickly settled or business districts, the law mandates that drivers adhere to the 25 mph limit to ensure safety for all road users.