Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumSpeed Limits and Speed Regulation

While navigating a two-lane suburban roadway during a severe rainstorm with heavy surface water and reduced visibility, a driver sees a posted regulatory speed limit sign of 45 mph. According to the Basic Speed Law, how should the driver determine their maximum legal driving speed?

  1. Drive at a reduced speed that is reasonable and safe for the existing weather and road conditions, regardless of the posted 45 mph limit.Answer
  2. B
    Maintain the posted 45 mph speed limit as long as the vehicle remains within marked lane boundaries.
  3. C
    Travel at exactly 15 mph below the posted limit whenever windshield wipers are in continuous use.
  4. D
    Match the speed of surrounding traffic even if other vehicles are exceeding safe traction thresholds.

Answer

The driver must operate at a reduced speed that is reasonable and prudent for the wet road surface and reduced visibility, even if that speed is lower than the posted 45 mph limit.
The correct answer reflects the Basic Speed Law, which states that no person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is reasonable or prudent having due regard for weather, visibility, traffic, and surface conditions. In severe rain with standing water, driving at the posted limit of 45 mph is dangerous and unlawful.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the primary governing speed principle during hazardous weather.
Recognize that the Basic Speed Law applies whenever weather or road conditions deteriorate.
Posted speed limits represent maximum allowable speeds under ideal conditions only.
2
Evaluate the safe operating parameters for heavy rain and standing water.
Determine that vehicle speed must be reduced to maintain traction and visual awareness.
Driving at the posted limit during adverse conditions creates significant risks of hydroplaning and collisions.

Key Concept

Basic Speed Law Requirements
Rate this question

Topics

Speed Limits and Speed Regulation

More questions from this topic