Is it Illegal to Drive Below the Posted Speed Limit on Illinois Roads?
Driving too slowly can be just as dangerous as driving too fast. It can cause accidents and confusion on the road, and it can also be a traffic violation. But is it actually illegal to drive below the posted speed limit in Illinois?
I was wondering about this while driving to work after I approach a car that, in my mind, was crawling along the road. Even though I wasn't running late I was annoyed at the pace the person in front of me was driving.
According to Illinois state law, the Illinois Vehicle Code defines a "safe and reasonable speed" as the speed that is reasonable and proper under the circumstances, taking into account the traffic, surface, and width of the road, as well as the weather and visibility.
This means that if you are driving below the posted speed limit, but you are driving at a speed that is safe and reasonable given the conditions, you are not breaking the law. However, if you are driving too slowly and causing a traffic hazard or obstruction, you could be cited for driving too slowly.
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There are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, if you are driving on a divided highway with two or more lanes in each direction, you are required to drive in the right lane unless you are passing another vehicle. If you are driving in the left lane and impeding the flow of traffic, you could be cited for driving too slowly, even if you are driving at or below the posted speed limit.
It's important to note that even if you are driving at a safe and reasonable speed, you may still need to adjust your speed based on the posted speed limit. For example, if you are driving on a road with a posted speed limit of 55 mph, but the weather conditions are poor and visibility is low, it may be necessary to slow down to a speed that is safe and reasonable for the conditions.
Is It Ever Illegal To Drive Under The Posted Speed Limit On Illinois Roads?
To answer the question, it is not illegal to drive below the posted speed limit in Illinois as long as you are driving at a safe and reasonable speed. However, if you are driving too slowly and causing a traffic hazard or obstruction, you could be cited for driving too slowly. It's always a good idea to pay attention to the posted speed limit and adjust your speed based on the conditions of the road and the weather.