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Speed Limits and Control
- 1/14Driving 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 your 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.
When calculating how far it takes to stop your car at 50 mph
With good brakes on dry roads, it can take 229 feet to stop due to your reaction time and braking distance. Always allow for this space, especially at higher speeds.
When tired, unwell, or physically impaired while driving
Avoid driving altogether. Fatigue and illness slow your reaction time and judgment, making it dangerous to operate a vehicle.
The conditions you should adjust your speed based on
Always match your speed to the current driving environment. Be cautious, especially in rain, fog, or with mechanical issues, to ensure safety for all road users.
When driving under posted speed limits in normal or adverse conditions
You must obey the maximum and minimum speed limits, which ensure safe and smooth traffic flow. In poor conditions, like heavy traffic, rain, or low visibility, you must reduce your speed and increase following distance.
When driving in an urban district in Texas
The maximum speed limit is 30 mph, unless otherwise posted. This lower speed ensures safety in areas with higher pedestrian activity, intersections, and driveways.
When driving in an alley in Texas
The speed limit is 15 mph. Alleys are narrow with limited visibility, so a low speed helps prevent accidents with pedestrians, vehicles, or obstacles.
If your driving on beaches or county roads next to public beaches (if declared by the commissioners court)
The speed limit is 15 mph. Soft sand, pedestrians, and recreational activity in these areas require slower speeds for safety.
Driving on a Texas or U.S. numbered highway outside an urban district
The speed limit is 70 mph for passenger cars, motorcycles, and most light trucks. For school buses, it’s 60 mph, especially if they’ve passed a commercial inspection.
When driving on an unnumbered highway outside an urban district in Texas
The maximum speed limit is 60 mph for regular vehicles and 50 mph for school buses that haven’t passed a commercial inspection. These roads may be less maintained or have more curves.
When approaching a stopped emergency or utility vehicle with flashing lights on a multi-lane road
You must either reduce your speed by 20 mph below the posted limit or safely move out of the lane closest to the vehicle. This law, known as the Move Over rule, protects emergency and maintenance workers from passing traffic.