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 Wisconsin, as in many other states, you can receive a ticket for driving too fast for conditions, even if you are below the posted speed limit. This is because the law requires drivers to adjust their speed to the current conditions of the road. Wisconsin Statute 346.57(2) specifically states that 'No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard for 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 citation for driving too fast for conditions, which is considered a moving violation and may result in fines, points on your driving record, and increased insurance rates.