Speeding in Texas: Can You Get Away With 10 Over the Posted Limit?

Drivers in every state are required by law to adhere to the posted speed limits. That said, most people think going a little over the speed limit is okay. In Texas, however, if you drive even 10 miles over the posted limit, you can expect fines and other penalties.

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What Are the Speed Limits in Texas?

In Texas, the speed limit varies depending on the type of road you are on as well as where you are driving. Below are some road types and the standard posted limits in Texas.

• Interstate Highways: The maximum speed limit on an interstate highway is 70 mph. In some highway areas, however, the posted speed limit could be higher, up to 75, 80, or 85 mph, if the Texas Transportation Commission considers it safe.
• State Highways and Rural Roads: The speed limit is generally 70 mph on rural roads and 60 mph on roads outside urban districts.
• Urban Areas: Speed limits are typically lower in urban areas, often around 30 mph in residential and business districts.

What Do Texas Laws Say About Speeding?

Texas drivers are required by law to follow the posted speed limits. Even going a little over the limit could land you a ticket and other penalties. Even going 10 miles per hour over the speed limit could be seen as a clear violation.

In short, Texas law enforcement does not condone or ignore speeding, even for drivers going just 10 mph over the limit. That said, we all know that enforcement practices may sometimes be different from the black and white stated law. Largely, this is because:

• Officers still have discretion in issuing citations
• Many officers focus on more egregious speeding violations, such as drivers speeding in construction zones or school zones.
• Traffic conditions and location can influence enforcement
• Tolerance thresholds, such as the driving 10 over the limit, may exist unofficially, but are not guaranteed
• Automated speed cameras are prohibited in Texas, which also impacts consistency in traffic law enforcement

Can You Get a Ticket for Going Ten Over the Speed Limit in Texas?

Yes, you can absolutely be ticketed for driving 10 mph or more over the speed limit in Texas. The consequences can be significant:

• Fines typically range from $150 to $300 for speeds up to 20 mph over the limit
• Higher speeds can result in more severe penalties, including license suspension
• Points are added to your driving record, potentially increasing insurance rates
• Speeding in school zones or construction areas carries heightened penalties

What Are the Penalties for Speeding in Texas?

Speeding in Texas is a Class C misdemeanor. Drivers going 25 or more over the posted limit could also face criminal charges if they try to outrun an officer who is trying to pull them over. Additional consequences for speeding in Texas may include:

• Fines typically range from $150 to $300 for speeds up to 20 mph over the limit
• Driver going at higher speeds may face higher fines, including having their license revoked
• Drivers ticketed for speeding get points added to their driving records
• More points on your driving record will likely increase your insurance premiums
• Speeding in school zones or construction areas carries higher and more severe penalties

Why Do Drivers Think They Can Speed Safely?

Drivers may think they can speed safely for a number of reasons. Often they justify their actions for various psychological factors, as well as a misunderstanding of road safety. Unfortunately, this is a dangerous mindset that leads to riskier driving behaviors and a greater chance of causing serious harm in a crash. These are some of the reasons people rationalize speeding or think they can speed safely.

Overconfidence in Driving Skills

Having confidence is great in many situations. However, as a driver, being overconfident can be deadly. Many drivers overestimate their abilities behind the wheel, believing they can handle higher speeds safely. Speeding can quickly cause you to lose control of your vehicle, especially in bad weather situations or when driving too close to other vehicles in heavier traffic.

Underestimating Risks

Drivers, especially those who are less experienced, have not had enough time behind the wheel to fully grasp the risk they are taking when they ignore the speed limits. Underestimating the risks associated with speeding can lead to catastrophic single or multi-vehicle crashes.

Time Pressure

Perceived time constraints often push drivers to speed, prioritizing punctuality over safety.

Peer Influence

The perception that “everyone else is speeding” can normalize the behavior, encouraging more drivers to follow suit.

Misconceptions About Speed Limits

Some drivers believe speed limits are set artificially low, leading them to disregard posted limits.

A safe speed to drive your car

A safe speed to drive your car is one at which you can stop safely within the distance you can clearly see ahead, often referred to as the “limit point”—and where you remain fully in control of your vehicle. It’s not simply about obeying posted speed limits; it’s about adapting your speed to match conditions such as visibility, traffic, road surface, and the condition of your car. By recognizing these factors, Texas drivers can reduce their risk of collisions and serious injury.

Consider the conditions:

Weather, visibility, and road surface all play critical roles in determining a safe driving speed. Wet, icy, or foggy conditions demand slower speeds, even if the posted limit remains unchanged. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, reducing speed in hazardous conditions greatly decreases your chances of being involved in a crash.

Key adjustments for conditions:

• Reduce speed in rain, snow, or fog.
• Increase stopping distance on slick roads.
• Use headlights in low visibility.

“Limit point” awareness:

The “limit point” is the furthest spot on the road you can clearly see. As you approach bends or hills, your limit point naturally decreases. Slow down so that you can safely stop within that visible area. On winding Texas roads, especially rural routes, maintaining this margin can mean the difference between avoiding an obstacle and causing a crash.

Vehicle condition:

Your vehicle’s ability to respond depends heavily on its maintenance. If your brakes, tires, or suspension are worn, your stopping distance increases. For example:

• Bald tires reduce traction in rain.
• Worn brake pads delay your ability to stop.
• Misaligned steering can reduce handling in emergencies.

Ensure your vehicle is routinely serviced and road-ready.

Traffic and surrounding vehicles:

A key component of safe driving speed is harmonizing with the flow of traffic without tailgating or abrupt lane changes. Monitor vehicles ahead, to the sides, and behind to maintain safe spacing and adjust accordingly.

Tips for navigating traffic:

• Keep a minimum 3-second following distance.
• Increase spacing at higher speeds or in bad weather.
• Let aggressive drivers pass to avoid pressure.

Speed limits are a guideline:

Posted speed limits represent maximum thresholds under ideal conditions, not a guarantee of safety. Texas Transportation Code § 545.351 affirms that drivers must adjust speeds to match road and traffic conditions.

Don’t overspeed:

Exceeding safe speeds reduces your reaction time and increases crash severity. Studies show that even minor increases over the limit significantly raise the likelihood of fatal injuries in accidents. Stay within a speed that allows for quick and controlled responses.

Stay attentive:

Constant vigilance behind the wheel allows for early recognition of hazards, road signs, and erratic drivers. Safe speed is only meaningful when paired with alertness. Avoid distractions like:

• Texting or phone use.
• Fiddling with GPS.
• Overreliance on cruise control.

Practice safe driving habits:

Safe driving isn’t passive—it’s a skill. Get familiar with your vehicle’s unique handling characteristics. Know how it accelerates, brakes, and corners. Practice emergency braking and evasive maneuvers in safe environments like driver training courses or empty parking lots.

Injured by a Speeding Driver? Contact Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, LLP

Injured by a speeding driver in Texas? Call Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, LLP to discuss your situation and learn about your potential legal options.

After a Fort Worth car accident, there is no reason for you to have to deal with the insurance company on your own. Our firm has the experience, knowledge and resources to help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

Deadlines apply, so be sure to speak to an attorney sooner than later. Your initial consultation is completely free, and if we represent you there are no upfront costs. We only get paid if you do.

Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn, LLP. We get results for you. (817) 920-9000.