Road Safety FAQ

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In most cases, the speed limits on California highways and freeways are posted and thus fall under the state’s absolute maximum speed limits of 55 mph, 65 mph, or 70 mph depending on the type of road and the area through which it passes, although municipalities can post lower speed limits in some cases.

Unless otherwise posted, the prima facie speed limit in California are as follows:

15 miles per hour at:

  • Railroad crossings
  • Alleys
  • Highway intersections without 100 feet of visibility of approaching vehicles

25 miles per hour in:

  • Business districts
  • Residential areas
  • School zones

When a driver exceeds the prima facie speed limit in a given area, they could be cited for speeding, where the burden of proof then rests on the driver to prove in court that their speed was reasonable.

  • Vehicle Deaths In The U.S. Were 14% Higher In 2018 Than 2014. While advances in technology have made cars safer, there is more competition than ever before for a driver’s attention, especially from smartphones, tablet computers, and infotainment systems built into vehicles.
  • Some activities like listening to loud music may only cause a certain amount of mental distraction, while others such as text messaging can also take hands off the wheel and eyes off the road, dramatically increasing the risk of an accident.
  • Many drivers seem to believe in multitasking, although neuroscience has repeatedly demonstrated that there is essentially no such thing.
  • Many drivers may be victims of cell phone addiction.
  • Teen drivers and those who drive for a living may be particularly at risk.
  • Most states have banned texting while driving, and many states have also banned cell phone use while operating a vehicle.
  • What You Can Do To Prevent Distracted Driving:
    • Be aware of the risks.
    • Limit technology in the car.
    • Pull over if you need to send a text message or answer a call.
    • Speak up if you see a driver using their phone.