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 Virginia, driving too fast for conditions, also known as 'speeding for conditions,' is a traffic violation under Virginia Code § 46.2-861. This statute states that a person is guilty of this offense if they drive a vehicle on a highway at a speed that is greater than reasonable under the circumstances and traffic conditions, regardless of the posted speed limit. This means that even if you are driving at or below the posted speed limit, you can still receive a ticket if your speed is not safe given the current conditions, such as inclement weather (rain, snow, or ice), reduced visibility (fog), construction zones, or heavy traffic. The law requires drivers to adjust their speed to maintain control of the vehicle and to avoid colliding with any person, vehicle, or other conveyance on or entering the highway. Penalties for driving too fast for conditions can include fines, points on your driving record, and increased insurance rates.