Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles Permit Practice Test

What is the maximum speed limit in urban residential areas?

1. 50 mph

2. 30 mph

3. 40 mph

4. 20 mph

The correct answer is: 30 mph

In urban residential areas, the maximum speed limit is typically set at 30 mph. This lower speed limit is established to ensure safety in environments where there is a higher likelihood of pedestrians, children playing, cyclists, and other potential hazards. By maintaining a maximum speed limit of 30 mph, drivers have more time to react to unexpected situations, reducing the risk of accidents. It is also a way to promote a more community-friendly atmosphere where residents can feel safe in their neighborhoods. The other options represent speed limits that may apply in different contexts or areas. For example, while 50 mph might be acceptable on larger roads or highways, it's not appropriate for the intricacies of residential streets where frequent stops and varied traffic can occur. Similarly, limits like 20 mph or 40 mph could apply in specific conditions or higher traffic zones but do not reflect the standard maximum limit for most urban residential settings.