Are Drivers Pulled Over for Driving 10 or More Miles per Hour Below the Speed Limit?

The short answer is yes, drivers can and often are pulled over for driving 10 or more miles per hour under the speed limit. The legality and reasoning behind these stops can vary depending on the situation, location, and behavior of the driver. Here, we explore the reasons why this can happen and the factors police consider when deciding to pull over a slow-moving vehicle.

Impeding Traffic and Excessive Slowness

In many states, driving at an excessively low speed can be considered indicative of a greater hazard. For instance, if a driver is significantly slower than the flow of traffic, they may be perceived as a danger to other motorists. This can happen for several reasons, including impaired driving or medical conditions that affect driving ability.

Impaired Driving

One common reason for stopping a slow-moving vehicle is suspicion of impaired driving. Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol are more likely to drive slower, as their reaction times and judgment are impaired. Similarly, a diabetic experiencing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) may have difficulty controlling their vehicle safely.

Factors Influencing a Pull-Over Decision

The decision to pull over a slow-moving vehicle depends on several factors, including the amount of traffic on the road at the time. If the driver is the only one on the road and shows no signs of impairment, they might not be cited. However, this is rare and not always applicable, especially in urban areas during rush hour.

Another important factor is the location. If a driver is driving significantly below the speed limit in areas known for drug trafficking, prostitution, or high crime, they might be pulled over based on these conditions, even if they are not visibly impaired. This is a gray area, but the reasoning behind the stop is often related to public safety concerns.

Speed Limit and Safe Driving

Driving 10 or more miles per hour below the posted speed limit can be subjective. While it is legal to drive at a lower speed, doing so can create a significant speed differential with other vehicles. For example, if the speed limit is 55 mph and you are driving at 45 mph, your relative speed to the traffic ahead is 10 mph. This is manageable for most drivers. However, if you are driving at 35 mph in a 55 mph zone, the relative speed to the traffic ahead is 20 mph, which could lead to reduced reaction times and increased risk of accidents.

Police and drivers need to find a balance. You should drive at a speed that is safe and appropriate for the road conditions and the flow of traffic. If you are significantly slower than the rest of the traffic, consider matching the average speed of other drivers, unless there is a valid reason for your slower speed.

What Does 'Excessively Slow' Mean?

Driving 'excessively slow' means that the speed is so low that it poses a risk to other motorists. It's generally safe to assume that if you are significantly slower than the flow of traffic and can cause other drivers to take evasive action, you are driving too slow. This could be especially dangerous in high-traffic areas or during emergencies like a medical emergency or traffic congestion.

Conclusion: Safe and Lawful Driving

In conclusion, while you are allowed to drive at a lower speed than the posted limit, it is important to consider the safety and flow of traffic. If you are significantly slower than the average speed of other drivers, you may be pulled over. Always drive at a speed that keeps you safe and does not create a significant risk for others on the road.

Remember, the key is to strike a balance between following the speed limit and ensuring safe driving. If you are unsure about your speed or the conditions of the road, it is always better to err on the side of caution and drive at a speed that ensures you can react appropriately to changing conditions.