Even if you are driving under the posted speed limit, you may be given a ticket or citation for driving too fast for the conditions. Driving too fast for conditions is defined as traveling at a speed that is greater than a reasonable standard for safe driving.
Examples of conditions where drivers may find themselves driving too fast include wet roadways (rain, snow, or ice); reduced visibility (fog); uneven roads; construction zones; curves; intersections; gravel roads; and heavy traffic.
In California, even if you are driving below the posted speed limit, you can receive a ticket for driving too fast for conditions under California Vehicle Code Section 22350, the Basic Speed Law. This law states that no person shall drive a vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable or prudent given the current conditions. Conditions that may require a reduced speed include inclement weather (such as rain, snow, or ice), reduced visibility (such as fog), road construction, traffic congestion, and road characteristics like curves and uneven surfaces. Law enforcement officers have the discretion to determine what constitutes a safe speed given the conditions. If a driver is found to be driving at an unsafe speed for the conditions, even if it is below the posted speed limit, they may be cited for violating the Basic Speed Law.