Manage Your Speed

In California, you may never drive faster than is safe for the current road conditions. This is known as the Basic Speed Law.

Make sure you manage your speed and slow down when conditions call for it. Regardless of the posted speed limit, your speed should depend on:

• The number of vehicles on the road.
• The speed of other vehicles on the road.
• The road surface: smooth, rough, graveled, wet, dry, wide, or narrow.
• Bicyclists or pedestrians on or crossing the road.
• Weather: rain, fog, snow, wind, or dust.
• Traffic congestion: small changes in your driving habits can help reduce congestion. Avoid weaving in and out of freeway lanes.

There are also situations with specific speed limit laws and conditions where you should reduce your speed. Unless otherwise posted, the ideal maximum speed limit on most California highways is 65 mph. It is 55 mph on a two-lane undivided highway and for vehicles towing trailers.