What is a characteristic of freeways compared to local roads?

The characteristic of freeways compared to local roads being higher speeds and limited access is fundamental to their design and intended use. Freeways are engineered to facilitate the rapid movement of large volumes of traffic over long distances by allowing vehicles to travel at higher speeds. This is achieved by having multiple lanes, wide shoulders, and design features that minimize disruptions.

Limited access is another key feature of freeways; they are designed with controlled entry and exit points, typically through interchanges rather than intersections. This design significantly reduces the number of conflict points that can arise from direct access to adjacent properties, thereby enhancing safety and maintaining flow speeds.

In contrast, local roads are designed for lower speeds and are characterized by frequent access points, such as driveways and intersections. This structure is necessary to accommodate the varied needs of residents, businesses, and pedestrians in local areas, but it results in slower travel speeds and more interruptions compared to freeways. Freeways aim to maximize efficiency for long-distance travel, which is a critical aspect of transportation planning.