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Difficulty: HardSpeed Limits and Speed Regulation

A motorist is driving on a two-lane road near a residential area. As the driver approaches an uncontrolled blind intersection where line-of-sight to cross traffic is completely obstructed for the last 100 feet, several tailgating vehicles behind are flashing their headlights. According to traffic speed regulation laws, which of the following actions is legally required of the motorist?

  1. Reduce speed to a maximum of 15 mph15\text{ mph} (or a lower prudent speed required by the Basic Speed Law) regardless of tailgating traffic.Answer
  2. B
    Maintain the standard residential speed limit of 25 mph25\text{ mph} to preserve traffic flow and avoid impeding vehicles behind.
  3. C
    Accelerate briefly through the intersection to pass the blind zone quickly and minimize rear-end collision risk.
  4. D
    Maintain a speed of 35 mph35\text{ mph} until a posted regulatory sign explicitly indicates a lower speed limit for the intersection.

Answer

Reduce speed to a maximum of 15 mph15\text{ mph} (or a lower prudent speed required by the Basic Speed Law) regardless of tailgating traffic.
Under traffic speed regulations and the Basic Speed Law, approaching an uncontrolled blind intersection (where view of cross traffic is blocked within 100 feet) mandates slowing down to a safe statutory speed (typically 15 mph15\text{ mph}). Pressure from following traffic does not relieve the driver of the obligation to maintain a safe speed for line-of-sight hazards.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the roadway conditions and visibility limitations.
The intersection is uncontrolled and view of cross traffic is obstructed for the final 100 feet prior to entry, defining it as a blind intersection.
Severe sightline obstructions reduce the driver's available stopping sight distance.
2
Apply statutory speed regulations and the Basic Speed Law.
Statutory rules restrict speed at blind uncontrolled intersections (typically to 15 mph15\text{ mph}), and the Basic Speed Law requires driving at a safe, reasonable speed for existing visibility hazards regardless of posted maximums or rear traffic pressure.
Traffic safety statutes dictate that drivers must be able to stop safely within the clear distance ahead when approaching obstructed intersections.

Key Concept

Basic Speed Law and Blind Intersection Speed Regulations
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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Topics

Speed Limits and Speed Regulation

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