A motorist is driving on a two-lane highway posted with a white rectangular regulatory sign indicating a speed limit of 55 mph. Sudden torrential rain creates heavy standing water and severely reduces visibility. How must the driver legally comply with the posted regulatory speed limit under these adverse conditions?
- Reduce driving speed below 55 mph to a rate that is reasonable and prudent for the hazardous weather and road conditions.Answer
- BMaintain a speed of 55 mph because a posted regulatory sign establishes the lawful required speed under all circumstances.
- CIncrease speed to overtake slower traffic quickly before entering the next roadway intersection.
- DCome to a complete stop in the active lane of travel as if encountering a Yield sign whenever rain impairs visibility.
Answer
The driver must reduce driving speed below 55 mph to a rate that is reasonable and prudent for the hazardous weather and road conditions.
The choice emphasizing speed reduction below 55 mph is correct because regulatory speed limit signs establish maximum legal speeds under clear, ideal driving conditions. When weather hazards such as heavy rain or standing water lower traction and visibility, drivers are legally bound by the basic speed law to slow down to a safe and prudent speed.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Basic Speed Law and Regulatory Speed Limits
Estimated Time:1m 0s