Mayor Walsh Says Dropping Speed Limit On Boston Streets Will Hopefully Save Lives, Details Law Enforcement Roles

Boston drivers will have to hit the brakes early next year.

The default speed limit for city-owned roads is dropping to 25 miles an hour from the current 30 miles an hour. State roads, like Storrow Drive, won't be affected.

City Transportation Commissioner Gina Fiandaca said that 5-miles-per-hour difference can save lives.

"There's a direct link between the speed a vehicle is traveling when a crash occurs and the likelihood of a fatality or severe injury that results from that crash."

Seventeen people have died in traffic crashes in Boston this year.

The speed limit change goes into effect Jan. 9. Boston Mayor Marty Walsh joined Morning Edition to explain the new regulation — and to urge Bostonians to slow down a little.