Speed
Laws
What is the basic speed law? What is the maximum speed limit? Is there a minimum
speed limit? And what is a prima facie speed limit? If you have trouble answering
these questions, you're not alone. Many drivers confuse the various California
speed laws with each other and those from other states. Here's a refresher:
Basic Speed Law
This is truly basic, and says that you must not drive faster than is reasonable
or prudent having due regard for things like weather, visibility, and traffic
& road conditions. What it means is that you must always use judgement and
consider prevailing conditions instead of simply driving the speed limit. You
could get a ticket for driving at a speed less than the speed limit if, in the
judgement of the officer, your speed was unsafe for the current conditions.
Prima Facie Speed Limits Prima facie limits are
basically default limits, meaning you are required to obey them unless other factors
necessitate higher or lower speeds. Any posted speed limit is a prima facie limit,
as are the following:
- 15 mph at railroad crossings and on approaches to low-visibility intersections.
- 25 mph in business and residence districts, in school zones, and when passing
senior centers.
Maximum Speed Limit This law establishes the following
maximum speed limits which, of course, are overruled by any prima facie limits
and the basic speed law:
- 55 mph on two lane undivided highways unless a higher limit is posted.
- 65 mph on all other highways unless a higher limit is posted.
- 70 mph only on those highways where it is posted.
Minimum Speed Law
You must not stop or drive so slow as to block or impede the normal and reasonable
flow of traffic, except for safety or legal reasons.
There are actually many more laws relating to speeding and speed limits. Contact
the Sheriff's Department or City Traffic Engineer for further information.
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