What is the legal speed limit in a residential area unless posted otherwise?

The legal speed limit in a residential area is 25 mph unless posted otherwise. This speed limit is established to ensure the safety of residents, particularly children and pedestrians, who are often present in these areas. The 25 mph limit is designed to allow drivers sufficient time to react to unexpected situations, such as a child running into the street, parked vehicles, or pedestrians crossing the road.

Higher speeds can reduce a driver's ability to stop quickly, increasing the risk of accidents. The guidelines for speed limits in residential areas are based on safety studies and are meant to create safer environments for all road users. While some might assume that speeds could be higher, especially if the roads are wide or straight, the 25 mph limit prioritizes safety in areas where people may unexpectedly enter the roadway.