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February law of the month

Driving too fast for conditions causes many wintertime troubles

Even people who take pride in being under control in every situation can easily lose control of their vehicles on icy or snow covered roads when they drive too fast for conditions.

“When there’s ice, snow and slick spots on roadways or when visibility is reduced because of bad weather, driving at the posted speed limit might actually be too fast for conditions,” says Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Stephen Fitzgerald. “The speed limit is based on a dry roadway and good driving conditions. You might not be able to stop or control your vehicle at that speed on a slippery road or during hazardous weather.”

Slowing down when driving conditions deteriorate is not just sound advice—it’s also the law.

It is illegal to drive at speeds that exceed what is reasonable and prudent under existing road conditions. Drivers are required to adjust their speeds to take into account both the actual and potential hazards due to weather, highway conditions or other traffic.

A violation of this state law costs $213.10 with four demerit points added to the driver’s record. A second offense within a 12-month period costs $263.50 with four additional points.

“The slogan ‘Snow Means Slow’ also applies to four-wheel drive and other heavy-duty vehicles, which need ample room to stop on slippery roads,” says Superintendent Fitzgerald. “It’s too late to change your driving behavior after your vehicle is in the ditch or involved in a crash. If you drive too fast for conditions, you likely could end up paying a couple hundred dollars for a traffic ticket in addition to your towing and vehicle repair bills.”

Previous "Laws of the Month"

Questions about the content of this page:
Steve L. Olson, steven.olson@dot.wi.gov
Last modified: January 31, 2012