schools
Need for speed? UMN researchers say arriving above the speed limit costs you — and doesn’t actually save much time
By Emily Baude at KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC)
· July 16, 2026
· 5 min read
Speeding in your car to work, to pick up your children from school, or go from one errand to the next not only wastes money in gas and sends harmful emissions into the air, it barely saves you time, new research says.
It is something to think about as gas prices stay elevated throughout the summe...
Key takeaway University of Minnesota researchers analyzed 120 million vehicle trips across the United States from four Wednesdays in 2021 using driving data on national road networks, speed limits and U.
Why this matters in The Minneapolis
For Minneapolis commuters, the findings of this University of Minnesota study hit close to home. As gas prices remain elevated, the potential to save millions of dollars at the pump by driving at posted speed limits is particularly relevant. With many residents relying on their vehicles to navigate the city and its surrounding areas, adopting a more mindful approach to driving could have a significant impact on both their wallets and the environment. The fact that driving at or below the speed limit would only add approximately 54 seconds to the average daily commute suggests that this is a small price to pay for the potential benefits. As the city continues to grapple with issues of sustainability and transportation, this research provides a valuable reminder of the importance of individual actions in contributing to a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective commuting culture.
About this story
Original reporting by KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) . The Minneapolis surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: schools ·
Published: July 16, 2026 ·
Source: KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Speeding in your car to work, to pick up your children from school, or go from one errand to the next not only wastes money in gas and sends harmful emissions into the air, it barely saves you time, new research says.
It is something to think about as gas prices stay elevated throughout the summe...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 16, 2026 by KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC) and curated for The Minneapolis readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Emily Baude at KSTP 5 Eyewitness News (ABC). To learn more about how The Minneapolis selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more schools coverage from The Minneapolis, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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