Speed limit lowered on stretch of U.S. 211

The Virginia Department of Transportation this week reduced the speed limit on a stretch of U.S. 211 in Rappahannock County.

The posted speed limit on the 3.75-mile-long stretch that runs along the ridge of Thornton Gap west of Sperryville was reduced from 45 mph to 35 mph on Thursday, according to a release from the department.

The new speed zone runs from just west of Sperryville almost to Skyline Drive.

The action was taken in response to residents’ comments and the number of crashes along the stretch, some of which were fatal.

“Of particular concern are the statistics for crashes involving motorcycles,” the release said. “Since 2002, there have been 51 motorcycle crashes resulting in 46 injuries and the deaths of seven motorcycle riders on the section of Route 211 between Sperryville and the top of Thornton Gap.”

The department identified excessive speed and loss of control on the highway’s mountainous curves as contributing factors in the crashes.