Question

Difficulty: EasyRegulatory Signs

A driver is traveling on a roadway posted with a black-and-white rectangular regulatory sign displaying a speed limit of 55 mph55\text{ mph}. Heavy rainfall begins, causing low visibility and wet road conditions. Which driving action complies with traffic safety laws?

  1. Slowing down below 55 mph55\text{ mph} to a speed that is safe for the weather and road conditionsAnswer
  2. B
    Maintaining a speed of 55 mph55\text{ mph} because driving at the posted numerical limit is always legally permitted
  3. C
    Coming to a complete stop in the active lane of traffic to yield until the rain stops
  4. D
    Increasing speed to pass slower vehicles within 100 feet100\text{ feet} of an upcoming intersection

Answer

Slowing down below 55 mph55\text{ mph} to a speed that is safe for the weather and road conditions
Black-and-white rectangular speed limit signs set the maximum legal speed under ideal conditions. When weather conditions degrade—such as heavy rain causing low visibility—the basic speed law requires drivers to adjust their speed below the posted maximum to maintain safe vehicle control.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the meaning of the posted regulatory sign
The sign sets a maximum speed limit of 55 mph55\text{ mph} under ideal driving conditions
Black-and-white rectangular signs are regulatory signs that establish enforceable traffic rules
2
Apply the basic speed law to current environmental conditions
Heavy rain and reduced visibility require driving slower than the posted maximum
Traffic laws dictate that drivers must never drive faster than is safe for existing weather and road conditions

Key Concept

Basic Speed Law and Regulatory Speed Limits
Estimated Time:45s
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