What is the appropriate speed limit on roads where pedestrians must walk on the road?

The appropriate speed limit on roads where pedestrians must walk on the road is typically set at 40 kph. This speed is deliberately chosen to balance the efficiency of vehicular movement and the safety of pedestrians. At this speed, drivers have a reasonable opportunity to react to pedestrians who may be in unexpected positions, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents.

Setting the speed limit at 40 kph ensures that motorists can maintain a steady flow of traffic while still providing a buffer that accommodates the presence of pedestrians. Limits lower than this may impede necessary traffic movement, especially in urban areas, while limits higher than this increase the danger for pedestrians significantly. Many traffic regulations around the world suggest that in mixed-use areas—where vehicles and pedestrians share the space—speed limits of around 40 kph help mitigate risk without excessively slowing down traffic.