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Even with ideal conditions, if you are traveling 55 miles per hour your vehicle requires approximately 211 feet to stop completely. 

Driving at a high speed is dangerous because each additional mile traveled per hour reduces the driver’s ability to control the vehicle. Speed also increases the likelihood that a crash will result in serious injury or death. On the other hand, driving below the posted speed limit can also be dangerous. If you must drive slower, you should still observe the posted minimum speed limit. At places where it is unsafe to pass, the slow driver forces other drivers to creep along behind or take unnecessary risks while trying to pass. Very slow driving is especially dangerous just after you have passed the crest of a hill or rounded a curve. Faster-moving vehicles can crash into the slower vehicle before they can slow down. For this reason, watch for slow-moving vehicles such as heavy trucks or farm vehicles. If traffic is collecting behind you, it is wise to pull over to the side of the road, stop and allow the vehicles to pass. 

The most important rules about speed are: 

Studies show that the vehicle moving at a speed considerably below the posted limit is much more likely to cause or be involved in a crash than the vehicle moving at a normal speed. 

• Never drive faster than the posted speed limit or at a speed that is unreasonable or unwise given the existing conditions. 

• Allow a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you (the “two- second rule”). 

• The faster you are moving, the farther ahead you must be able to see to allow enough distance for stopping. 

Conditions often change as you drive. You will drive through different areas such as open country, residential communities and school zones. Watch for changing conditions and adjust your speed accordingly. 

Unless otherwise posted, the speed limit is 35 mph in cities and towns. Special speed limits may be posted for special areas. To be a safe driver, you must often drive slower than the posted limit, but you should not drive faster. 

## Rounding a Curve 

The best way to handle a curve: 

1. Slow down before you enter the curve so that you will not need to brake while you are in the curve; 

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## Maximum Speed Limits 

2. Gradually increase your speed to maintain the traction necessary for good control of the vehicle as you round the curve; 

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