Speed Limit Question

As I understand it, variable speed limits are law.

Aggravating at times I know, like dormant work zones posted at 45, but . . . . Is what . . . It . . . Is.

 

If the sign is black and white, it's "statutory law". Otherwise, it's "advisory".

 

Where I'm from it's the law. You can be charged with" too fast for conditions "anything over the current posting.

 

It depends on the area. Some states make advisory speeds laws, others don't. It's best to always follow the advisory speed. Common sense shouldn't have to be law.

 

Yup. If it is posted "45", then you shouldn't exceed 45. If you do, they may not be able to write you a ticket for exceeding the maximum speed limit, but they CAN nail you for "failure to use caution for hazardous condition" 392.14 is a 5 point violation, as is 392.2C failure to obey a traffic control device...but that is if you are lucky. If they opt for reckless driving, that's a 10 point violation. Then again, if you caught the officer on a bad day (or got on his bad side), he COULD write you for all of the above and more...like "scheduling a run to necessitate speeding" 392.6 which is another 5 point violation.

Don't exceed the posted speed even if you think it is "safe". Even if the work zone appears vacant, it is still a 10 point violation...not to mention if you are 15+ over (easy to do in a 45 zone) that's another 10 points for the speed AND a serious violation 383.51 (get a second one of those in the next 3 years and you're DQ'd for 60 days).

Simple solution to avoid all of this? Slow down and don't exceed the speed limits, because whether they are "advisory" or "statutory", they can be enforced and it is NEVER cheap being on the receiving end of that enforcement.

 

If the PATPK has those flashing signs saying 45 or on the radio, then it is the law. Especially since it's a private road and they can dictate whatever they want.

Also, work zones posted at certain speeds: If you are caught 10 mph over the posted speed in the work zone you will get accelerated fines AND automatic 30 day suspension. Try to fight that one in court!

PA passed that a few years ago.

So when the idiots behind you are grousing on the cb because you're going 40 in a 40, just turn off the radio.

 

I agree, do what the sign says. I've long thought, the cops leave the speed limit at 45 when there's no obvious construction, it's a speed trap, and the cops will enforce it. Gotta pay for that new cruiser somehow. For me, a quick rule of thumb when you can tell if it's slick. No spray from you tires, (or other's tires) means, back 'er down, quick.

 

[QUOTE="semi" retired;4396374]I agree, do what the sign says. I've long thought, the cops leave the speed limit at 45 when there's no obvious construction, it's a speed trap, and the cops will enforce it. Gotta pay for that new cruiser somehow. For me, a quick rule of thumb when you can tell if it's slick. No spray from you tires, (or other's tires) means, back 'er down, quick.[/QUOTE]

Another pretty good indicator is your west coast mirrors.....if the backs of them are icy , you can pretty much bet the bridges and overpasses are slick too...maybe not the roads quite yet but the other 2 will be......