Speed Limits and Control
- 1/20You are driving a rural highway without signs. The speed limit that applies here is
On rural roads in North Carolina, the default speed limit is 55 Miles Per Hour (MPH) unless posted otherwise. Drivers should reduce speed near curves, towns, or driveways.
A vehicle enters city limits with no signs. Speed regulation applies here is
In cities and towns, the general unposted speed limit is 35 Miles Per Hour (MPH). Always watch for traffic, pedestrians, and traffic signals while driving in urban areas.
If you enter a school zone during pickup hours, the enforced legal speed is
School zones typically require drivers to reduce speed to 20 Miles Per Hour (MPH) when children are present or warning lights are flashing.
A flashing yellow sign is active near children. Proper response is
Flashing yellow school zone signs mean reduced speed limits are in effect. Drivers must slow down and drive with caution when children are nearby.
If you are in a construction area with no speed limit posted, the required driving speed is
Unless a lower limit is posted, drivers must follow the roads usual speed limit but should drive cautiously in work zones.
If rain begins falling on the open highway, the adjusted speed control is
Wet roads reduce tire traction and increase braking distance. Lowering speed improves control and safety during bad weather.
A speed limit sign is covered by branches. Driver obligation still applies here is
Even if the sign is hard to see, drivers are responsible for following the posted limit as legally required.
If you are exiting the interstate on a sharp curve, the necessary adjustment is
Exit ramps are designed for lower speeds. Reduce speed appropriately to maintain control while turning safely.
f a sign up ahead shows a limit change, the required driver response is
When approaching a new speed limit, adjust your speed gradually and smoothly to match the posted limit without sudden braking.
If fog sets in on a familiar route, the careful speed management required is
In foggy conditions, visibility is reduced. Lowering your speed allows for more reaction time and safe braking distance.
If a blind curve appears on a mountain road, the required driver action is
Curves, especially blind ones, require slower speeds to maintain control and react to oncoming vehicles or obstacles.
Traffic downtown is heavy with many pedestrians. Best driving speed applies here is
Dense traffic areas call for reduced speeds to allow for pedestrian safety and quick reaction to unexpected stops.
If you are following a school bus in the city, the immediate responsibility is
Always maintain a safe following distance behind school buses, especially in school zones or when warning lights are active.
If you pass a 70 miles per hour (mph) sign on the freeway, the conditional speed limit is
The posted limit indicates the maximum speed allowed under ideal conditions. Drivers must reduce speed if conditions worsen.
If you drive near a hospital with crosswalks ahead, the expected safe action is
Areas near hospitals or clinics may have vulnerable pedestrians. Slower speeds help prevent collisions and provide reaction time.
A speeding driver passes you in fog. Caution must be taken here is
Never match dangerous speeds. Always drive at a safe, legal speed suited to road and weather conditions.
If you are towing a trailer through backroads in North Carolina. Reasonable speed applies here is
When towing, drivers should follow the general limit of 55 Miles Per Hour (MPH) and may need to go slower on hills or curves.
If you enter a four-lane road without speed signs, the default speed limit is
On four lane roads outside cities, the default limit is 55 Miles Per Hour (MPH) unless a sign shows otherwise.
If you approach a curve with a yellow speed sign, the needed driver response is
Advisory speed signs show the safest speed for that specific curve or condition and should always be followed.
If a steep hill appears on your route, the required driver action is
On steep hills, maintaining a low and steady speed prevents brake failure and ensures safe descent. Use lower gear if needed.