Drivers have a duty to ensure they’re driving safely, which means they’re following all applicable traffic laws. One of these is that they’re driving at a speed that’s safe. In many cases, that means complying with the speed limit.
There may be times when the speed limit for a stretch of road may not be an appropriate speed for drivers. For example, driving 55 miles per hour on a highway may be acceptable and at the speed limit when the road is dry. It might not be safe to drive that fast if it’s raining or foggy.
How are speed limits determined?
Speed limits are determined based on the ideal conditions of that stretch of road. Many areas have statutory speed limits that apply to all roads of a certain type. For example, some places have a statutory speed limit of 25 miles per hour in residential areas or 70 miles per hour on the interstate.
If certain roads are studied for suitable speed limits, it may be found that the acceptable speed limit shouldn’t be the same as the statutory speed limit. In those cases, posted speed limits would apply. Drivers should always consider a posted speed limit as the absolute maximum speed at which they can safely drive during ideal weather conditions.
Drivers who don’t follow the speed limit or don’t slow their speeds according to current conditions may cause a crash. This can lead to significant injuries for the victims. Seeking compensation may be beneficial for these individuals so they can get their cases filed within the statute of limitations.