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 North Dakota, as in many states, it is possible to receive a citation for driving too fast for conditions, even if you are driving at or below the posted speed limit. This is because the law requires drivers to adjust their speed to match the conditions of the road. Factors that can necessitate a reduction in speed include inclement weather (such as rain, snow, or ice), reduced visibility (like fog), road construction, uneven road surfaces, curves, intersections, gravel roads, and heavy traffic. The relevant North Dakota Century Code (NDCC) 39-09-01.1 states that no person shall drive a vehicle on a highway at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing. This means that drivers must consider the current state of the roadway and weather, and drive at a speed that is safe for those conditions. Failure to do so can result in a traffic violation.