Speed Limits and Control
- 1/20If you drive faster than road or weather conditions allow
Road surfaces, traffic, and visibility affect safe driving speeds. Driving too fast for the conditions increases braking distance and risk of skidding or collisions.
When you approach an intersection at high speed
High speed reduces reaction time and can cause you to run red lights or collide with crossing vehicles or pedestrians.
If you fail to slow down before curves or downhill roads
Commercial vehicles have a higher center of gravity. Excessive speed on curves or slopes causes instability and loss of steering control.
When you exceed the posted limit in urban zones
Urban areas often include schools, crosswalks, and unexpected obstacles. Speeding in these areas is strictly enforced and considered dangerous.
If you drive below the minimum posted speed unnecessarily
Driving too slowly without valid reason frustrates other drivers and can lead to unsafe overtaking or rear-end collisions.
When you ignore speed limit signs near work zones
Work zones require reduced speed for worker and equipment safety. Failing to obey can lead to increased penalties or serious accidents.
If you do not adjust speed before merging onto highways
Merging requires matching the speed of highway traffic smoothly. Entering too slowly or quickly can confuse or endanger others.
When you brake hard due to late speed adjustments
Abrupt braking at high speeds may cause loss of control, especially with heavy loads. Planning ahead avoids sudden maneuvers.
If you speed to make up for delays
Commercial drivers must manage time responsibly. Speeding to recover lost time is reckless and illegal, risking accidents and penalties.
When you descend a long slope too fast
On long downhill stretches, use engine braking and lower gears to control speed. Relying only on brakes leads to dangerous overheating.
If you ignore advisory speed signs before curves or exits
Advisory signs are set based on safe maneuvering speeds. Ignoring them can cause rollovers, missed turns, or off-road crashes.
When you drive too fast near schools or hospitals
Sensitive zones like school areas demand slower, alert driving. Violations often carry higher fines and stricter enforcement.
If you do not slow down in heavy traffic
Traffic congestion requires continuous speed adjustments. High speed reduces your ability to react to sudden stops or lane changes.
When you travel too fast in poor visibility
Rain, fog, or sandstorms reduce sight distance. Adjusting speed protects you from hitting unseen vehicles, debris, or pedestrians.
If you use cruise control on slippery surfaces
Cruise control maintains speed, but does not account for icy, wet, or sandy patches. It can delay your response and worsen skids.
When you exceed limits while carrying hazardous cargo
Dangerous goods require extra caution. Speeding while carrying them can magnify consequences of crashes, including fire or toxic spills.
If you accelerate aggressively from stops
Smooth acceleration helps maintain control and reduces fuel use. Fast takeoffs are unnecessary and risky, especially with heavy loads.
When you misjudge speed in roundabouts
Entering a roundabout too fast reduces turning ability and increases side-swipe risk. Slowing down keeps your lane and timing accurate.
If you fail to reduce speed in sandstorm-prone areas
Sandstorms can appear suddenly. Lower speeds allow you to stop safely, keep distance from others, and avoid visibility-related crashes.
When you drive too fast for your vehicle size or load
Larger trucks with heavy loads take longer to stop. Speed must be adjusted to match the size, weight, and road conditions of the vehicle.