Speed limitation law — Alaska Permit Test

When driving conditions are less than ideal, an Alaska driver must drive at a careful and prudent speed that is reasonable for the conditions.

A posted limit is set for good conditions; ice, fog or heavy traffic can make that speed too fast to stop in time.

When driving conditions are less than ideal a person operating a motor vehicle on the highway shall drive at a careful and prudent speed no greater than what is reasonable and proper having due regard for the following conditions:

An Alaska driver may not drive faster than will let them stop within the assured clear distance ahead.

If you cannot stop in the space you can see is clear, anything that appears in that space will be hit.

A person may not drive a vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than will permit them to stop within the assured clear distance ahead.

Under Alaska's speed limitation law, heavy, congested or slow-moving traffic calls for a slower speed.

In thick traffic the cars around you can stop or change lanes without warning, leaving little room to react.

Traffic—When traffic is heavy, congested, or moving slowly.

Under Alaska's speed limitation law, a road surface that is rough, icy, wet or gives poor traction calls for a slower speed.

Tires that cannot grip the road need far more distance to stop or steer around trouble.

Surface—When the road surface is rough, icy, wet, or otherwise provides poor traction.

Under Alaska's speed limitation law, a roadway whose width reduces your margin of safety calls for a slower speed.

On a narrow road there is less room to steer away from an oncoming car or something in your lane.

Width—When the width of the roadway reduces your margin of safety.

Under Alaska's speed limitation law, weather such as rain, snow, fog, dust or smoke that affects sight, distance and traction calls for a slower speed.

When you cannot see far or your tires slip, you need more time to spot trouble and to stop.

Weather—When weather conditions affect sight, distance, and traction.

When driving conditions are less than ideal, what speed does Alaska law require?

A careful and prudent speed. A posted limit is set for good conditions; ice, fog or heavy traffic can make that speed too fast to stop in time. Alaska Driver Manual, p.34: “When driving conditions are less than ideal a person operating a motor vehicle on the highway shall drive at a careful and prudent speed no greater than what is reasonable and proper having due regard for the following conditions:”