What is the speed limit in residential areas unless otherwise posted?

In Virginia, the speed limit in residential areas is established at 25 mph unless otherwise posted. This regulation aims to promote safety within neighborhoods where pedestrians, children playing, and cyclists are often present. The 25 mph limit is an appropriate speed that balances the need for efficiency in traffic movement while ensuring that drivers have adequate reaction time to stop for any unexpected hazards that could arise in these more populated and potentially unpredictable environments.

This specific speed limit helps to minimize the risk of accidents, as a lower speed can significantly reduce the severity of collisions. It also encourages a more community-friendly atmosphere where residents feel safer walking or biking in their neighborhoods. Roads with different speed limits may be marked clearly, but in the absence of specific signage indicating a different limit, the default in residential zones is 25 mph.