Texas Driver's License Knowledge TestRight-of-WayHard
You are driving on a road with a posted speed limit of 45 mph. You observe a construction zone ahead with workers present, and a temporary sign indicating 'FINES DOUBLED IN WORK ZONE'. What is the minimum speed you should maintain if no other speed limit is posted for the work zone?
- AMaintain a reasonable and safe speed, typically 25 mph, while workers are present.
- BSlow down to 20 mph below the posted limit.
- C45 mph, as no specific work zone speed is posted.
- DIncrease speed to clear the zone quickly.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Maintain a reasonable and safe speed, typically 25 mph, while workers are present.
Texas law (Transportation Code 545.362) specifies that a driver must reduce speed to 20 mph below the posted limit or 25 mph, whichever is greater, when passing a construction or maintenance work zone when workers are present and visible. Since 45-20=25, and 25 is the greater of the options, 25 mph is the minimum safe speed.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This rule applies, but you must take the greater of the two outcomes (20 mph below or 25 mph). In this case, 45 - 20 = 25, so 25 mph is the correct minimum.
- C. Failing to reduce speed in a work zone with workers present is illegal and unsafe.
- D. Increasing speed in a work zone is highly dangerous and illegal.
Work Zone Speed Limit (Texas)
When workers are present in a construction or maintenance zone, drivers must reduce speed to 20 mph below the posted limit or 25 mph, whichever is greater.
- Applies when workers are present and visible.
- Fines are doubled in work zones.
- Safety of workers is paramount.
Memory trick: Workers present? Slow down, prevent! 20 below or 25, keep lives alive!