California Basic Speed Law: Drive Safe for Conditions

CVC 22350 – The Basic Speed Law

No person shall drive at a speed greater than is reasonable or prudent given weather, visibility, traffic, road surface/width, and never at a speed endangering people or property.

What This Means

• No fixed limit fits all conditions; you must judge.
• Rain, fog, ice, heavy traffic, narrow/winding roads → slow down.
• Even if under posted limit, you can be cited if speed is unsafe for conditions.

Penalties

• First offense: up to $100 fine.
• Repeat: up to $500 + point on record.
• >100 mph: Reckless driving (misdemeanor: up to 90 days jail, $1,000 fine).

When in doubt, slow down.