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 Maine, 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. Maine law requires drivers to operate their vehicles at a reasonable and prudent speed for the current conditions. This means that drivers must adjust their speed to account for factors such as inclement weather (rain, snow, or ice), reduced visibility (fog), road construction, uneven road surfaces, curves, intersections, gravel roads, and heavy traffic. The standard for what constitutes a 'reasonable' speed can vary depending on the specific circumstances. If a law enforcement officer determines that a driver is going too fast given the conditions, they may issue a citation for violating the basic speed rule or a similar provision under Maine's traffic laws.