Speeding is dangerous. Speed limits exist for a reason. When tractor trailers exceed the speed limit, it puts everyone else on the road at serious risk. A truck speed limiter—sometimes referred to as a speed governor—is a type of device the restricts are a truck’s maximum speed limit. They are a useful safety feature, but they are not currently mandatory in Georgia. Within this article, our Georgia truck accident attorneys highlight why speeding is so dangerous for truckers, explain what truck speed limiters are, and discuss the speed limiter regulations in Georgia.
Speeding By Large Commercial Trucks in Extremely Dangerous
Speeding by large commercial trucks is extremely dangerous due to their massive size and extreme weight. A fully loaded eighteen wheeler in Georgia can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Even a few miles per hour above the speed limit means that a truck will be carrying far more force. Further, when these tractor trailers exceed the speed limit, the trucker has far less time to react and. Not only does speeding by a truck driver increase the risk of a crash, it makes any accident that does happen all the more likely to result in serious injuries.
An Overview of Truck Speed Limiters
A truck speed limiter is a type of device that restricts how fast a tractor trailer can go. Speed limiters work by electronically controlling the fuel supply to the engine of the truck and/or by managing the air supply to the throttle. The effect is that the device caps the speed at a preset limit.
In other words, a truck speed limiter makes it impossible for a truck driver to exceed a certain pre-set speed limit. For example, a truck could be equipped with a speed limiter that does not allow the vehicle to exceed 70 miles per hour (MPH).
As explained by the American Trucking Association (ATA), truck speed limiters are supported by many people both inside and outside of the industry. Though, there are questions about what exactly a truck’s maximum allowable speed should be set at.
Know the Law: Speed Limiters for Trucks are Not Mandatory in Georgia
Speed limiters for trucks are not currently required by law in Georgia. As of January of 2025, there is no federal mandate nor is there any state mandate. With that being said, it is possible that one could be coming at some point in the relatively near future. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) emphasizes that its safety plan for commercial trucking is focused on “speed as a significant factor in fatal crashes and speed management as a primary tool to reduce serious injuries and fatalities.”
Notably, FMCSA has initiated the process for requiring speed limiters for commercial trucks. However, there is currently no finalized federal requirement in effect. The FMCSA issued an advance notice of supplemental proposed rulemaking and invited public comment on speed limiters—but there are several steps in the regulatory process before any speed limiter requirement could take effect. A proposed rule may be published in May of 2025. However, there are questions about whether or not the Trump Administration will continue to move forward with the process. It is certainly no guarantee that one will take effect. If the rule does take effect, it will likely only apply to commercial trucks manufactured after a certain year.
Note: Georgia does not currently require speed limiters on commercial vehicles. Of course, truckers must still strictly comply with the posted speed limit at all times. A trucker who speeds can be pulled over and cited for a traffic violation. They may also face civil liability for any crash.
Negligent Truckers Must Be Held Accountable
Georgia is a fault-based motor vehicle crash state, including for semi-truck accidents. Speeding is negligence. A trucker who causes a crash due to speeding can be held legally responsible for the resulting damages. Every serious truck accident should be thoroughly investigated by a top-tier Georgia semi-truck accident attorney. Your lawyer can protect your rights and your interests.
Recovering the Maximum Compensation for a Speed-Related Truck Accident in Georgia
Were you involved in a large commercial truck accident with a trucker who was speeding? If so, you have the right to hold them liable for the full extent of your damages, including non-economic losses. However, insurance companies fight hard to pay out less to injured victims. Our Georgia truck accident lawyers help clients secure the maximum available financial compensation. Along with other damages, your settlement or verdict may include compensation for:
- Automobile repairs or replacement;
- Hospital bills and other health care costs;
- Medications and medical equipment;
- Physical therapy and mental health support;
- Loss of income and diminished earnings;
- Pain and suffering & mental distress;
- Long-term disability; and
- Loss of quality of life; and
- Wrongful death of a loved one.
Why Trust Our Georgia Truck Accident Lawyers for a Speed-Related Collision
Georgia truck accident lawsuits can be challenging to navigate. You cannot rely on the truck company or any insurance company for guidance and support. At Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC, we are ready to invest the time and resources to handle your case the right way. With millions recovered on behalf of injured victims, our verdicts and settlements tell the story of what we can do for injured victims. Your initial consultation is free and fully confidential.
Speak to Our Top-Tier Georgia Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC, our Georgia truck accident attorneys fight tirelessly to deliver justice and the maximum financial compensation to victims and their families. If you were hurt in a crash caused by a speeding trucker, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free, completely private case review. We represent truck accident victims throughout Georgia, including in Atlanta, Augusta, Marietta, Sandy Springs, Lawrenceville, Roswell, Smyrna.