Which statement best describes the Basic Speed Law?

• A. You must always drive at the posted speed limit.
• B. You may never drive faster than is safe for the road conditions.
• C. You should drive as fast as other cars.
• D. You should always drive slowly in all weather.

Answer: (B)

The basic rule is to drive at a speed that’s safe for current conditions. You’re not required to follow the posted limit if conditions—such as rain, fog, ice, darkness, or a winding road—make a lower speed necessary to stay in control and avoid hazards. In other words, the speed you choose must let you react to potential dangers and stop safely on the roadways you’re on.

That’s why driving slower than the posted limit is appropriate in bad weather or on slick surfaces, curves, or limited visibility. It’s not about chasing other drivers or always staying at the limit; it’s about safety. Conversely, if conditions are clear and dry, you may drive near or up to the limit, provided you can do so safely.

Choosing the option that says you may never drive faster than is safe for the road conditions best captures this idea. The other statements imply strict adherence to the limit or driving in a way that doesn’t account for actual road conditions, which isn’t how the Basic Speed Law works.