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driving too fast for conditions

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 New York State, drivers are required to adjust their speed to the conditions of the road, regardless of the posted speed limit. This is in accordance with Section 1180(a) of the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law, which states that no person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing. This means that in adverse conditions such as rain, snow, ice, fog, construction zones, or heavy traffic, drivers are expected to slow down to a speed that is safe for the given situation. Failure to do so can result in a ticket for driving too fast for conditions, even if the vehicle is traveling below the posted speed limit. The law recognizes that the posted speed limit is the maximum under ideal conditions and that drivers must use judgment to determine a lower, safer speed when conditions are not ideal.

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Traffic tickets

driving too fast for conditions

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Traffic tickets

driving too fast for conditions

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