Speed Limits and Control
- 1/20When driving in fog along curves in rural Vermont road, you must
Foggy conditions on rural curves increase crash risks. Visibility is limited and curves reduce reaction time. Lowering speed ensures safer control of the vehicle.
Interstate speed limit signs display posted Miles Per Hour (MPH). The maximum limit is
The legal maximum speed on Vermont interstate highways is 65 Miles Per Hour (MPH) unless posted otherwise. Driving faster is illegal and unsafe.
When approaching a hill on wet road surface
Hills can make wet roads more dangerous. Vehicles gain speed quickly downhill. Braking gently prevents skidding and keeps you in control.
A yellow curve sign shows 35 Miles Per Hour (MPH) ahead
Speed signs on curves are warning based and advisory. Drivers must slow down to match the curves safe navigation speed.
When entering a Vermont construction zone without a visible speed sign
Even without posted signs, Vermont law requires drivers to slow down in construction zones to protect workers and maintain control.
When driving on city streets during heavy pedestrian movement you must
Urban areas with many pedestrians require lower speeds. This allows drivers time to yield, avoid sudden stops, and prevent collisions.
When roads are wet with accumulated snow
Snow reduces tire grip and lengthens braking distance. Slower driving prevents sliding and provides more time to respond safely.
When following another vehicle in Vermont in a foggy morning
Reduced visibility means you need more time to stop. Increasing space helps prevent rear end collisions and improves reaction time.
A vehicle tailgates you on a narrow Vermont road, you must
Being tailgated can cause stress and unsafe decisions. Vermont law encourages letting faster traffic pass when it is safe.
Entering a downtown intersection with flashing yellow lights
Flashing yellow lights signal caution. You must slow down, scan for hazards, and prepare to stop if needed.
When a speed sign is missing near a residential area
In residential zones, Vermont default speed limits apply. If no sign is posted, use caution and assume 25 Miles Per Hour (MPH) or less.
When it is raining on a busy Vermont highway
When rain begins, oil and dirt rise, making roads slippery. Slow speeds and increased alertness prevent skidding and hydroplaning.
When road visibility decreases due to setting sun glare
Bright sun reduces visibility and can hide signs or hazards. Slowing down improves response time and reaction ability.
When sharp curve warning appears while traveling downhill in mountains
Downhill driving combined with curves increases danger. Using a lower gear and early braking gives better control.
A roadwork begins suddenly with cones and workers nearby
Work zones require slower speeds and extreme caution. Fines may double in these zones, and safety for workers is vital.
If you drive through a Vermont school zone in morning hours you must
Vermont school zones require slower speeds when children are present. The posted limit is usually 25 Miles Per Hour (MPH) or lower.
You are entering a roundabout with no traffic in your lane, you should
Even if your lane appears open, roundabouts require yielding to circulating traffic. Enter only when it is fully safe.
If descending from a hill in snow, using cruise control, you must
Cruise control can lead to skidding on slippery hills. Manual control helps you adjust speed as needed and stay safe.
Approaching a 4 way stop with multiple waiting vehicles
At 4 way stops, the driver who arrives first goes first. Yielding in the correct order avoids confusion and collisions.
If a Vermont state trooper stops you for excessive speed at night then
Speeding especially at night increases crash risk and legal consequences. You may receive fines, license points, or required safety courses.