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driving too fast for conditions

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 Montana, as in many states, it is possible to receive a ticket for driving too fast for conditions, even if you are driving at or below the posted speed limit. Montana law recognizes that safe driving speeds vary depending on a range of conditions such as weather, visibility, and road quality. According to Montana Code Annotated 2021, Section 61-8-303, drivers are required to operate their vehicles at a 'reasonable and prudent' speed given the current conditions. This means that in adverse conditions, such as rain, snow, ice, fog, construction zones, or heavy traffic, drivers are expected to adjust their speed to ensure safety even if this means driving slower than the posted limit. Failure to do so can result in a citation for driving too fast for conditions, as law enforcement officers have the discretion to determine what constitutes a reasonable speed under the circumstances.

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Traffic tickets

driving too fast for conditions

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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Montana State Code

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Traffic tickets

driving too fast for conditions

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