Speed limit signs — New Mexico Permit Test

The maximum speed limit should be driven only in ideal driving conditions.

The posted limit assumes a dry road and a clear view; rain, ice or fog make that speed too fast.

The maximum limit should be driven only in ideal driving conditions and you must reduce your speed when conditions require it.

You should drive slower than the limit when the road is slippery, in rain, snow or ice, or in fog.

Wet or icy roads take longer to stop on, and in fog you cannot see a hazard until it is close.

For example, you should reduce your speed when the roadway is slippery, during rain, snow, icy conditions, or when it is foggy and difficult to see clearly down the road.

Some high-speed roads have minimum speed limits, and you must travel at least that fast so you are not a hazard.

A car going much slower than the rest makes others brake hard or swerve around it.

Some high-speed roads have minimum speed limits and you are required to travel at least this fast so as not to be a hazard to other drivers.

If the posted minimum speed is too fast for you, you should use another road.

Driving below the minimum puts you and others at risk, so a slower road is the safer choice.

If the minimum posted speed is too fast for you, you should use another road.

When should you drive at the maximum posted speed limit?

Only in ideal driving conditions. The posted limit assumes a dry road and a clear view; rain, ice or fog make that speed too fast. New Mexico Driver Manual, p.6: “The maximum limit should be driven only in ideal driving conditions and you must reduce your speed when conditions require it.”