Driving Too Fast For Conditions

What is Driving Too Fast For Conditions?

When someone is driving “too fast for conditions,” it indicates they are moving at a pace that makes it difficult for them to maintain safe control of their vehicle, given the circumstances of the current road. What exactly constitutes “too quick” will be determined by the particulars of the instance in question.

No one should drive at a speed that is more than what is acceptable and appropriate given the circumstances, especially when taking into consideration the real and possible dangers that were present at the time.

When it comes to the following, every driver should move at a speed that is appropriate and prudent:

  • When crossing a railroad or intersection
  • When driving around a curve
  • When driving over a hillcrest
  • When driving on a narrow or winding road
  • During adverse weather conditions
  • Approaching crosswalks

When Does "Driving Too Fast for Conditions" Apply?

Because this moving offense might be interpreted in a variety of ways, drivers are cautioned to keep a close eye on the present state of the road. It is possible for a person to receive a ticket even if they are driving at the legal speed limit but are traveling at a speed that is unsafe, given the current road and weather conditions. Whether or not a driver is able to maintain control of their car under adverse conditions is often the deciding factor.

The following are examples of potentially hazardous situations that could hinder a person’s ability to drive safely at particular speeds:

  • Rain
  • Ice
  • Snow
  • Sleet
  • Heavy Traffic
  • Visibility Issues
  • Slippery Roads
  • Obstacles on the Road

Even if drivers adhere to the official speed limit, the presence of certain kinds of obstructions or conditions may make it impossible for them to navigate, go around a curve, or otherwise drive in a safe manner.

In any of these scenarios, the police have the ability to issue a ticket to a driver for driving “too fast for conditions.” It is not necessary for there to be an existing traffic violation in order for someone to be cited for this offense. They have the authority to issue a penalty if they determine that the driver did not reduce their speed appropriately based on the current conditions. 

After pulling over a car for going “too fast for conditions,” an officer may additionally decide to examine the driver for other violations, such as possession of illegal drugs or driving under the influence of alcohol.

What Are the Penalties for Driving Too Fast for Conditions?

Infractions for driving “too fast for conditions” are punishable under Georgia’s “Basic Rules” statute. If someone is found guilty of breaking a fundamental regulation, the potential punishment could be a fine that is lower than $1,000. A violation of a fundamental regulation will not result in points on a driver’s record.

Drivers who hold commercial driver’s licenses (also known as CDLs) are the only people who are exempt from the requirements stated above. It is required that the Department of Driver Services be notified whenever a commercial driver’s license holder is found guilty of any moving infringement, including “too fast for conditions.” This may result in further fines for the driver.

Call an Attorney if You Were Injured in a Car Crash

There is a rationale behind why the “too fast for conditions” is in place. If a person drives too quickly for the circumstances of the road, they run the risk of losing control of their car and maybe causing an accident. This puts the lives of the other motorists on the road in danger.

If you were involved in an accident and believe it was caused by another person’s negligence, you deserve to be compensated for your losses.

If another driver does not pay attention to the road conditions and they cause an accident to occur, they are responsible for any injuries or damages that you suffered.

Contact The Brown Firm to schedule a free consultation if you were hurt in an accident that wasn’t your fault.

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