In Canada, both Ontario and Quebec require speed limiters set to 105kph (65mph). Here in the U.S. the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) is moving ahead with plans to craft a 68 mph speed limiter rule. This action is in response to a petition filed by the American Trucking Association, Road Safe America, a road-safety advocacy group, and nine trucking companies. FMCSA is currently studying the economic impact of such a rule and is expected to release their report in about 90 days.

As with many other issues in the trucking industry, various groups are aligning themselves on both sides of the issue. For some, reducing truck speed will result in a speed variance between cars and trucks, which they feel will in turn lead to increased congestion and accidents. Others, however, see decreased truck speed as a way to decrease the number and severity of accidents. Schneider said that a study they conducted of their fleet revealed that trucks without a speed limiter accounted for 17% of the miles, but 40% of the serious collisions.

A Notice of Proposed Rulemaking isn't expected until 2012, so a final rule is still a ways in the future. It does appear, however, that the idea is gaining traction and will eventually happen.