When we think of traffic violations, speeding often comes to mind. But did you know that driving too slowly,especially under the posted speed limit,can also be dangerous and even illegal in Georgia?
Whether you’re traveling on two-lane roads, through a residential district, or along a busy access control highway, moving even 5-10 MPH below the maximum speed limit may trigger concerns from a police officer, affect the flow of traffic, or cause unsafe speed situations. Let’s break down Georgia’s traffic law, minimum speed limit rules, and your rights if you’re injured in an accident caused by a slow speed vehicle.
Georgia’s Minimum Speed Laws Explained
While most drivers focus on the maximum speed limit, Georgia also enforces minimum speed limit laws under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-184. This speed limit law makes it illegal to drive at such a reduced speed that you impede the reasonable movement of traffic,unless it’s due to inclement weather, official duties, or a traffic control device.
Key Factors:
- Impeding the movement of traffic is the core concern.
- Poor road conditions, such as unpaved roads, heavy traffic, or construction, can justify reduced speed.
- Minimum speed limits are posted to maintain the rate of speed and promote public safety.
Is Driving 10 MPH Below the Speed Limit Illegal in Georgia?
Not necessarily. Driving 10 miles per hour under the posted speed limit is not an absolute speed limit violation unless it disrupts traffic conditions, impacts traffic flow, or causes dangerous behavior. For instance, on a multi-lane highway, slowing down in the left lane may violate the “Slowpoke Law” and lead to a traffic ticket.
Risky Scenarios:
- Blocking the left lane without passing.
- Slowing motor vehicles in the fast lane.
- Disrupting driving privileges of others by triggering rear-end collisions or unsafe lane changes.
Penalties for Driving Too Slowly in Georgia
Violating Georgia’s speed limit law by operating at a slow speed may result in:
- Fines ranging from $25 to maximum fines of $150.
- Points on your driving record, leading to license suspension.
- Being labeled as a high-risk driver, raising your insurance premiums.
- Legal consequences like driver license penalty points or court-mandated driving courses.
Even though it’s not as serious as a speeding offense or reckless driving, the legal limits still apply.
Exceptions to Georgia’s Speed Limit Law
There are justifiable reasons to drive below the limit speed:
- Inclement weather like fog, snow, or rain.
- Emergency vehicles or school bus stops requiring caution.
- Poor highway conditions, unpaved county road, or highway maintenance zones.
- Motor vehicle failure, which may require exiting safely.
These are considered valid by official sources, including law enforcement agencies and peace officers.
What Georgia’s Left Lane Law Means for Slow Drivers
Georgia’s Slowpoke Law states that if you’re in the left lane and not passing, move over,even if you’re going the maximum speed limit. Slowing the rate of speed in that lane disrupts reasonable movement and may warrant a citation.
Why Driving Too Slowly Can Be Dangerous
Driving under the safe speed can increase danger due to:
- Risky overtaking on two-lane roads.
- Crash forces doubling during rear-end collisions.
- Errors in judging actual speed of oncoming traffic.
- Hazards on unpaved country roads or residential districts.
Just like illegal speeders, slow speed drivers can pose a tremendous risk to public safety.
Who’s Liable in an Accident Caused by a Slow Driver?
Under Georgia’s comparative fault laws, a slow speed driver can be the at-fault driver if their actions contributed to the crash. If you’re injured, you may recover compensation if you are less than 50% liable.
Potential Damages:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
The material element of traffic investigation is whether the driver impeded the reasonable movement of traffic and failed to observe basic state speed limits or any traffic control device like a speed limit sign or traffic light.
What to Do If You’re Injured by a Slow Driver
Protect yourself by gathering:
- Photos of speed limit signs, damage to your motor vehicle, and surrounding road conditions.
- Witness statements and police officer reports.
- Medical evaluations and proof of driving record impact.
Ted Law Firm helps victims prove traffic violations, especially when speed in excess or lesser speed violations apply.
Can You Sue a Slow Driver in Georgia?
Yes,you can take legal action if a slow driver’s reduction of speed limit behavior caused your injury or property loss. Ted Law Firm will assess:
- The presence of official traffic control devices
- Whether the driver violated the default speed limit
- Evidence from laser speed detection devices, dashcams, or Visual estimates
We focus on maximizing recovery within legal limits.
Use Caution When Driving Below the Speed Limit
Driving below the posted speed limit is not always illegal,but when it affects the flow of traffic, you risk violating Georgia’s speed limit law. Keep right, respect official traffic control devices, and avoid becoming an obstacle to the movement of traffic.
Let Ted Law Firm handle the legal stress while you focus on healing. We proudly help people in Atlanta, Columbus, Macon, Athens, Savannah, Warner Robins, and all of Georgia! We advocate for accident victims across South Carolina and Georgia. We fight for fair compensation – even when insurance companies don’t.
Injured by a slow driver on Georgia roads?
Ted Law Firm can help you navigate complex traffic laws, from slow speed issues to speeding ticket cases. We fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. We understand every nuance of Georgia’s traffic law,including absolute speed limits, driving privileges, and speed-related death-a-day statistics. Don’t wait,get your FREE case evaluation today!
Attorney Ted Sink, founder of The Ted Law Firm, is a Yale, Stanford Business School, and Charleston School of Law graduate and former marketing executive who built a 7-figure law practice, earning millions for his clients. With experience in both law and advertising, Ted has been recognized in Forbes, Entrepreneur, and the ABA Journal. He speaks at industry conferences on marketing and law firm management, sharing insights from his unique background to help other firms grow. When not working, Ted enjoys traveling, diving, and dog-sitting golden retrievers.
