Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

If a speed limit is not posted while driving, what speed should you default to?

1. 20 mph

2. 25 mph

3. 30 mph

4. 35 mph

The correct answer is: 30 mph

In situations where a speed limit is not posted, the default speed is typically 30 mph in urban areas or residential districts. This standard is based on common traffic regulations that help ensure safety and maintain a flow of traffic. Riding at this speed allows drivers to react appropriately to pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles, particularly in areas where more vulnerable road users may be present. This default speed is established because it strikes a balance between being fast enough for efficient travel and slow enough to ensure safety in areas where additional caution is warranted. In most jurisdictions, this default speed applies unless otherwise indicated by local ordinances that might set different limits for specific conditions or road types. The other options, while they may represent reasonable speeds under certain circumstances, do not align with the standard practices established for default speeds in the absence of posted limits. This is why 30 mph is the correct choice, as it reflects the commonly adopted speed limit for areas without specific signage.