If a conflict exists between authorized speeds, which speed must you comply with?

If a conflict exists between authorized speeds, which speed must you comply with?

• A. The highest specified speed.
• B. The lowest specified speed.
• C. The average of the specified speeds.
• D. The most recently posted speed.

Answer: (B)

When there are conflicting authorized speeds, you must operate at the most restrictive one. The lowest specified speed is the speed to comply with because it represents the greatest safety constraint in effect, whether due to track conditions, signals, or a temporary restriction. Riding at a higher speed would violate that stricter limit and could jeopardize stopping distance and overall safety. The average has no basis for determining the limit, and the most recently posted speed may not reflect current conditions and could be superseded by a lower restriction.

When there are conflicting authorized speeds, you must operate at the most restrictive one. The lowest specified speed is the speed to comply with because it represents the greatest safety constraint in effect, whether due to track conditions, signals, or a temporary restriction. Riding at a higher speed would violate that stricter limit and could jeopardize stopping distance and overall safety. The average has no basis for determining the limit, and the most recently posted speed may not reflect current conditions and could be superseded by a lower restriction.