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 Tennessee, 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 operate their vehicles at a speed that is safe for the current conditions of the road. Factors that can affect what is considered a safe 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. Tennessee Code Annotated (T.C.A.) § 55-8-152 provides the basic rule of speed, stating that no person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard for the actual and potential hazards then existing. This means that drivers must adjust their speed to account for the conditions of the road, regardless of the speed limit. Failure to do so can result in a ticket or citation for driving too fast for conditions.