SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-speed-for-road-surface

Which condition should affect your driving speed?

The road surface, weather, traffic, and visibility all matter.

  1. The car's paint color
  2. The road surface ✔
  3. The radio station

Why: Rough, wet, narrow, or slippery roads can require a slower speed. Pick a speed that leaves time and traction to respond.

Huh, didn't know that: Pedestrians, bicyclists, and congestion are also reasons to reconsider speed.

The dad joke
The road surface had strong opinions, so the tires listened closely.
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References

Answer: The road surface. Rough, wet, narrow, or slippery roads can require a slower speed. Pick a speed that leaves time and traction to respond.

  1. California Driver's Handbook, Manage Your Speed www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/safe-driving-cont2
    The road surface: smooth, rough, graveled, wet, dry, wide, or narrow.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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Test yourself in the game

Cars & DrivingWhen should you reduce speed for a highway exit?Cars & DrivingCan the posted limit be too fast for current conditions?Cars & DrivingUnder a yellow curve warning sign, a small yellow sign says 25 MPH. What is it?

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