A driver is traveling along a rural two-lane highway with a posted maximum speed limit of 55 mph. A sudden severe thunderstorm creates heavy standing water and drastically reduces visibility, though traffic remains light. Which of the following statements correctly describes the driver's legal speed obligation under traffic safety laws?
- The driver must reduce speed below 55 mph to a rate that is reasonable and prudent for the hazardous weather and road conditions.Answer
- BThe driver may legally maintain 55 mph as long as they stay within their marked lane and do not exceed the posted maximum speed limit.
- CThe driver is required to drive at a fixed minimum reduction of exactly 15 mph below the posted limit whenever windshield wipers are in continuous use.
- DThe posted 55 mph limit remains mandatory as a minimum required speed unless an official temporary speed reduction sign is activated.
Answer
The driver must reduce speed below 55 mph to a rate that is reasonable and prudent for the hazardous weather and road conditions.
The correct answer reflects the core principle of the Basic Speed Law: regardless of the posted maximum speed limit, a driver must adjust their speed to what is safe and prudent given weather, visibility, road, and traffic conditions.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Basic Speed Law vs. Posted Maximum Speed Limits
Estimated Time:1m 30s