In the film, “Top Gun,” Tom Cruise’s character quipped, “I feel the need, the need for speed!” When flying fighter jets, speed is a good thing. But driving on the road is not the place to speed. In fact, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) finds that speeding is the number one contributing factor in traffic crashes, causing 1,469 deaths in just one year. That makes understanding the Texas basic speed rule important for every driver.
Understanding the Basic Speed Law
The Texas basic speed law is the same traffic principle that virtually all states have among their driving regulations. Here is how the Texas Department of Transportation explains this principle:
“Texas posts speed limits so you know how fast you should drive under normal conditions. Speed limit signs encourage you to travel at safe speeds to arrive at your destination safely in the shortest possible time. Texas speed limits are the law, and they are strictly enforced across the state.”
Across Texas, the maximum speed limit is 70 mph. However, the Texas Transportation Commission allows that limit to change to 75 mph, 80 mph, or 85 mph. Those limits are mostly reserved for long stretches of open highway. Another TxDOT resource details how the basic speed law is based on the 85th percentile method. It all comes down to what is considered the reasonable flow of traffic, which depends on the conditions.
Impacts on Traffic Speed
Many factors can impact how fast you should be driving on Texas roads. Here are some of the changing considerations:
Weather
Texas drivers can experience a wide range of weather conditions, including heavy rain, hail, fog, and occasional snow. Many weather systems move through areas quickly, so the clear roads you start out on could be covered in rain just miles ahead. You need to make adjustments to your speed to maintain control of your car during these adverse weather events.
Traffic Flow
Traffic congestion is part of every commuter’s life. No matter how much you plan, an unknown factor can always influence traffic flow. Whether it is someone changing a tire on the side of the road or a more severe accident, you could find yourself in heavy traffic, which forces a slowdown.
Road Conditions
No matter how often you drive down the same stretch of road, you frequently encounter new conditions. There could be a pothole or other debris that you have to navigate around. There may also be work zones that are an issue.
Per TxDOT, in 2023, there were over 26,000 traffic accidents in work zones across the state. That is why the speed limit in work zones is 20 mph below the posted limit in that area. However, you might need to go even slower until you clear the work zone.
Visibility
Driving during the day can sometimes mean you get caught in the glare of the sun. At night, the glare comes from approaching headlights. In either situation, you must adjust your speed to compensate for the lack of invisibility.
Vehicles on the Road
It is not just traffic flow that can impact your speed but also the type of vehicles that you’re sharing the road with. Semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, buses, and RVs need more brake time. That means if you’re driving behind those types of vehicles, you need to give yourself more braking distance, too. Remember, you won’t always be able to see the road in front of those vehicles. They could make a sudden stop that also forces you to suddenly apply your brakes.
Pedestrians and Cyclists
If you are driving on roads with designated bicycle lanes or around schools, you must be aware of the potential of kids and bikes. Also, areas with high foot traffic can increase the likelihood of pedestrians crossing the street. These zones should automatically have you slowing down.
Speeding Fines
Following the Texas speed limits reduces the risk of accidents and traffic. Disobeying speeding rules can lead to fines, points on your license, and possibly a suspension. Each city and county can set its own fines for going over the speed limit.
For instance, if you go 10 miles over the speed limit in Houston, you could be fined $200. At 20 mph over the limit, that fine jumps to $265. If you are caught speeding in a construction zone with workers, the fine is $430.
When Speed Causes an Accident
If you are the victim of a car accident where speed is a factor, it might be easy to determine who is at fault. However, you would still need the support of an experienced legal team like you would find at Barrera Law Group LLC. Whether you need help expediting your insurance claim or need to settle the matter of compensation in court, we can provide you with the right guidance and support through every step of the process. Call to set up a free consultation today.