Even if you are driving under the posted speed limit, you may be given a ticket or citation for driving too fast for the conditions. Driving too fast for conditions is defined as traveling at a speed that is greater than a reasonable standard for safe driving.
Examples of conditions where drivers may find themselves driving too fast include wet roadways (rain, snow, or ice); reduced visibility (fog); uneven roads; construction zones; curves; intersections; gravel roads; and heavy traffic.
In Massachusetts, the law recognizes that driving at or below the posted speed limit may still be too fast under certain conditions. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Section 17, states that no person shall drive a vehicle on a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable and proper, having regard for the traffic and the use of the way and the safety of the public. This means that drivers must adjust their speed to account for adverse weather conditions, road construction, traffic congestion, visibility issues, and any other situation that could affect safe driving. If a driver is found to be traveling at a speed that is unsafe for the current conditions, even if it is below the posted speed limit, they can be cited for driving too fast for conditions. Police officers have the discretion to determine what constitutes a reasonable speed under the circumstances, and courts will consider the specifics of each case when adjudicating such citations.