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 Idaho, as in many states, it is possible to receive a ticket for driving too fast for conditions, even if you are driving at or below the posted speed limit. This is because Idaho law requires drivers to adjust their speed to account for various factors that may affect the safety of travel. According to Idaho Statutes, specifically Idaho Code § 49-654, drivers must not operate a vehicle at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions, taking into account the actual and potential hazards then existing. This means that in adverse conditions such as rain, snow, ice, fog, construction zones, curves, intersections, gravel roads, or heavy traffic, drivers are expected to drive at a speed that ensures safety and avoids accidents, regardless of the posted speed limit. Failure to do so can result in a citation for driving too fast for conditions.