Motorists are reminded to be patient when following other vehicles. However, drivers are also reminded that there is a minimum speed limit.
As traffic backs up on Highway 61, the North Shore Scenic Byway during the fall color season, motorists can sometimes become frustrated when following leaf-looking vehicles. Recently someone asked Sgt. Neil Dickenson of the Minnesota State Patrol, “Can a person get a ticket for driving too slow?
Sgt. Dickenson said, “Yes!”
Freeways in Minnesota have an actual posted minimum speed limit. A driver must use due care in operating a vehicle, so there are times when traveling under that limit would be legal and encouraged because of weather conditions (snow, ice, fog, etc.) and actual or potential hazards on the highway.
According to Minnesota State Statute 169.15, “No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic except when reduced speed is necessary for safe operation or in compliance with law or except when the vehicle is temporarily unable to maintain a greater speed due to a combination of the weight of the vehicle and the grade of the highway.”
“I look at it as how a ‘normal and reasonable’ person would travel on a road,” said Dickenson. “If a motorist is unable to maintain a safe speed when it’s a clear, sunny day and roads are in good condition, I would look for a reason beyond the violation, including impairment from alcohol or drugs, even prescription medications; general physical/health problems; diabetic loss of consciousness or seizures; vision problems; lack of physical driving skills; lack of knowledge of traffic laws; or mental or emotional problems.”
Leave a Reply