Speed Limits and Control
- 1/25Driving at 30 mph or less in good conditions
At speeds of 30 mph or less in good weather, a 2-second gap helps ensure enough time to react to sudden stops. It reduces the risk of rear-end collisions. Use a fixed object ahead to count the seconds between vehicles.
If you’re driving above 30 mph in good road conditions
Driving over 30 mph, a 4-second gap gives you more time to react and stop safely. Higher speeds mean longer stopping distances. This helps prevent crashes, especially in sudden traffic changes.
When roads are wet, crowded, or visibility is limited
Always slow down and increase your following distance. Wet roads and limited vision reduce your ability to stop quickly and maintain control, increasing crash risk.
If your field of vision is reduced at higher speeds
Driving faster narrows your peripheral vision. At 60 mph, your field of vision drops to about 1/5 of what it is when stationary. Slowing down helps you stay aware of your surroundings.
In cities, towns, and villages unless posted otherwise
The default speed limit is 25 mph unless otherwise posted when driving through cities, towns, or villages.
On county roads when no speed is posted
Unless posted otherwise, the speed limit on county roads in Oklahoma is 55 mph.
On rural highways unless otherwise posted
Oklahoma allows driving at 65 mph on rural highways unless otherwise regulated by signs.
On designated turnpikes
The maximum speed limit on some Oklahoma turnpikes is 75 mph, as posted by regulatory signs.
In school zones when lights are flashing
When school zone warning lights flash, drivers must reduce speed to 25 mph or less.
In residential neighborhoods with children present
Always reduce speed and stay alert when driving through residential areas, especially when children are present.
In construction zones with workers or equipment present
Speeding fines double in construction or maintenance zones when workers or equipment are present.
On sharp or hazardous curves
Curves may require you to slow down below the posted limit for safe handling and control.
When approaching an intersection
Approaching intersections requires reduced speed and readiness to yield or stop.
At railroad crossings without gates or lights
Always slow down when nearing railroad crossings that lack active warning devices.
When approaching stopped school buses
Vehicles must stop for school buses with extended stop arms on undivided roads.
In neighborhoods with narrow or unmarked roads
Narrow streets and unmarked roads require slower driving to prevent side collisions.
On gravel or unpaved roads
Driving on loose surfaces requires slower speeds to avoid skidding or rollover risks.
In fog, heavy rain, or snow
Poor weather conditions demand slower driving even if signs permit higher speeds.
Al conducir de noche
Reduced visibility at night means drivers must slow down and leave more space.
If you are towing a trailer or hauling a heavy load
Towing adds weight and decreases stability; reduce speed and drive cautiously.
While entering or exiting a freeway
Use the acceleration or deceleration lane to match traffic speed and avoid collisions.
When vehicles are stopped on the roadside
Oklahoma Move Over Law requires slowing down or changing lanes for stopped emergency or service vehicles.
Approaching a pedestrian crossing
Always reduce speed and yield to pedestrians, especially at crosswalks.
When entering a curve or hill with limited view
Curves and hills with limited sight require a reduction in speed to react in time.
In variable speed zones during hazardous weather
Variable speed limits adjust for weather or incidents always follow the current posted limit.