What is Michigan's basic speed law?

• A. Drive at a speed that is reasonable and prudent for conditions, not just the posted speed limit; adjust for weather, traffic, and road conditions.
• B. Always drive at the posted speed limit, regardless of weather or road conditions.
• C. Increase speed when traffic is light to reduce congestion.
• D. Follow the speed of the vehicle in front of you at all times.

Answer: (A)

Michigan's basic speed law means you must drive at a speed that is reasonable and prudent for the conditions, not just the posted limit. You adjust your speed for weather, traffic, road surface, visibility, curves, and other hazards. When conditions are good, you may travel near the limit, but you still must drive safely. In rain, snow, ice, fog, or construction zones, you must slow down even if that means going well below the limit. The idea is safety before numbers.

The posted speed limit isn’t a guarantee of safety in adverse conditions, and you shouldn’t speed up just because traffic is light or because others are driving faster. Following the car in front is not a substitute for choosing a safe speed for the conditions.