What is a safe driving practice regarding speed?

Following the posted speed limits is a fundamental safe driving practice for several reasons. Speed limits are established based on a variety of factors, including road conditions, traffic density, and safety considerations for all road users. Adhering to these limits helps to ensure that drivers have adequate reaction time to respond to sudden changes in traffic flow, pedestrians, or other potential hazards.

Driving at a controlled speed also contributes to a smoother traffic flow, reducing the likelihood of collisions caused by speeding or erratic driving behaviors. Furthermore, maintaining the appropriate speed enhances safety for vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists, providing them with a higher degree of protection.

In contrast, driving as fast as possible or speeding up to merge into traffic can significantly increase the risk of accidents. Slowing down only when it rains is insufficient because road conditions can vary greatly due to other factors, such as night driving or poor weather conditions unrelated to rain. Therefore, always adhering to posted speed limits is essential for maintaining safety on the roads.