What is the highest speed limit in Canada?

Canada’s Highest Speed Limit: Coquihalla Highway’s 120 km/h Zone

Canada’s roadways generally adhere to strict speed limits to ensure the safety of drivers and pedestrians alike. However, one highway stands out as an exception, allowing motorists to push the pedal further than on any other legal roadway in the country.

Coquihalla Highway: A Speed Limit of 120 km/h

The Coquihalla Highway, stretching through the rugged mountains of British Columbia, holds the distinction of having the highest speed limit in Canada. Along certain stretches of this highway, drivers are permitted to travel at speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour (75 miles per hour).

This elevated speed limit is a result of the highway’s unique design. The Coquihalla Highway is a four-lane divided highway with a median barrier, wide shoulders, and gentle curves. These features allow for safer high-speed driving conditions than on many other roads in the country.

Historical Context

In the past, other highways in British Columbia also shared the 120 km/h speed limit, including the Okanagan Connector. However, safety concerns, including a high number of crashes and fatalities, led to a reduction in speed limits on these routes.

The Coquihalla Highway remained an exception due to its superior design and lower crash rates. The British Columbia government conducted extensive studies and determined that the 120 km/h speed limit could be maintained safely on this particular highway.

Safety Considerations

While the Coquihalla Highway allows for higher speeds, it is important to note that safe driving practices still apply. Drivers must remain alert, obey posted speed limits, and adjust their speed accordingly based on weather conditions and traffic volume.

The 120 km/h speed limit on the Coquihalla Highway is a testament to the careful planning and engineering that goes into road design. It is a unique feature of Canada’s transportation system and allows drivers to experience a higher level of freedom and speed on the open road, provided they drive responsibly.