California is at the top of the list when it comes to traffic offenses. Drivers in California are accustomed to moving around ‘quickly,’ which explains why the state issues over 4 million traffic penalties each year.The truth is that no one enjoys being stopped, but unfortunately, not everyone is fully aware of the driving laws in California. Most likely aren’t even aware that four different types of speeding laws regulate speeding itself. California’s speed laws must be taken seriously, as they can bring many consequences to those caught breaking them. Here we explain the basics and the major speed laws in California.
What is the purpose of a speed law?
The purpose of speed limits is to accomplish—mainly— two things. The fundamental goal of speed limits is to improve safety by lowering the likelihood of having drivers who decide to travel at unsafe speeds while also reducing speed inequalities and thus vehicle collisions.All drivers in California must be aware of the four major speed laws. These California traffic laws were put in place to improve road safety and make driving safer for the state’s 40 million residents. The following are the details:
Basic Speed Law
According to California’s Basic Speed Law, drivers must maintain a reasonable speed based on road and weather conditions. This rule applies when you exceed a ‘limit’ that isn’t set by law but instead determined by various factors. This law, however, does not apply if you exceed 65 mph.Concerning your surroundings, the basic speed law is enforced according to the following factors:
Flow of Traffic in General
Is everyone driving at the posted speed limit, or are some drivers slowing down due to rush hour or a nearby accident?
Weather
Is it raining or snowing outside, and you need to reduce your speed for your safety? Or is it bright and sunny with perfect visibility?
The number of automobiles on the road
Is there a lot of traffic? Is the 65 mph speed restriction excessive when comparing it to the traffic?
Pedestrians in the area
Is your lane surrounded by pedestrians or bicyclists? Can you change lanes to give them more room and put safety first?
Surface of the road
Are you driving on flat or hilly terrain? Are there any speed bumps in the vicinity?
Animal warnings/ Signage
Are there any animal warning signs in the area? Should you be more cautious?
Zones of construction
Is there any work going on on the freeway or in the business district? Is your location marked with speed restriction signs or detours?
Accidents or cars pulled over in the area
Are you driving on a two-lane highway? Is it possible for you to switch to the opposite lane?The Basic Speed Law also applies to commercial drivers that operate a towing vehicle, bus, or heavy truck. However, a few more requirements guarantee that you are driving safely. Depending on the number of lanes on the road or highway, you should go in the right-most or second-rightmost lane with a larger vehicle. Additionally, due to the extra weight your vehicle carries, signs across the state indicate reduced speed limits for commercial trucks as a precaution. Remember that your car may generate significant gusts of wind wherever you are traveling, causing damage to nearby vehicles or persons.Prima Facie Speed LawThe Prima Facie Speed Law establishes maximum speed restrictions in regions where speed limit signs are not displayed but should be understood and obeyed. For example, you break Prima Facie if you drive 30 mph on the street in a neighborhood with no written speed limits.The Prima Facie speed limit is 25 mph in school zones, residential neighborhoods, and business sectors. Some school zones, for example, may limit the speed to 15 mph. The purpose of the Prima Facie Speed Law is to ensure that everyone drives at a safe speed based on their environment, even if no signs are there.Alleys and railroad crossings have a Prima Facie speed of 15 mph. If you can’t see approaching vehicles or trains in both directions for 400 feet on each side, this is critical to avoid harm and keep you safe.
Maximum Speed Law
The Maximum Speed Law is perhaps California’s most well-known speed law. The maximum speed law states that you may not drive faster than the official speed limit, which applies while passing slower drivers. In other words, you may not drive faster than the posted speed limit while you ‘follow the traffic flow’ since it puts others in danger.Here’s when speed traps can enter the game. A speed trap is a technique where highway authorities purposefully make it hard for drivers to respect the maximum speed limit. An example of a speed trap is when authorities lower the speed limit unjustly to catch motorists off guard and issue them a speeding ticket. But in California, speed traps are illegal, meaning you can likely challenge a ticket given to you this way. But this does not give people the right to speed; because standard radar equipment is still legal, and if you’re caught speeding, you’ll get a ticket.
Minimum Speed Law
Contrary to popular belief, receiving a citation for driving too slowly is possible. California’s Minimum Speed Law prevents vehicles from driving too slowly, as this disrupts traffic flow and puts other cars at risk. Various minimum speed limits are posted around the state, albeit not prevalent.Nevertheless, in terms of the Basic Speed Law, reducing your speed while driving, especially considerable and abrupt reductions, poses a risk. Take into account any environmental elements that may affect your speed, and remember to drive safely at all times.
What happens if I break any of the four major speed laws?
You might face a fine of a few hundred dollars if you break one of California’s four major speed rules. Furthermore, if you were driving recklessly (20 mph or more over the speed limit), your license may be suspended, or you may face jail time if this is a repeated offense.Are you in trouble for breaking any of these four major laws? Let us help you fight your ticket. The team at Ticket Snipers is always available to provide you with the best professional lawyers. Let us handle your ticket and stop worrying about it!