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 Pennsylvania, drivers must adhere to the Basic Speed Law, which mandates that they must never drive a vehicle at a speed that is greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions. This means that even if a driver is traveling below the posted speed limit, they can still receive a citation for driving too fast for the conditions present. Conditions that may require drivers to adjust their speed include inclement weather (such as rain, snow, or ice), reduced visibility (like fog), uneven or damaged road surfaces, construction zones, curves, intersections, gravel roads, and heavy traffic. The law recognizes that these conditions can significantly affect the safety of driving at the posted speed limit, and drivers are expected to exercise appropriate caution and reduce their speed accordingly to ensure safety on the road.