Basic Speed Law

Transportation Code, Chapter 545, Subchapter H, “Speed Restrictions,” contains the following sections governing speeds in the state:
  • Section 545.351, Maximum Speed Requirements
  • Section 545.352, Prima Facie Speed Limits (see also Transportation Code, Section 623.101, Speed Limit: for Manufactured House or House Trailer Being Towed)
  • Section 545.353, Authority of Texas Transportation Commission to Alter Speed Limits
  • Section 545.3531, (repealed by L 2011, Chap 259(14). eff 6/17/11)
  • Section 545.3535, Authority of Texas Transportation Commission to Alter Speed Limits on Certain Roads
  • Section 545.354, Authority of Regional Tollway Authorities to Alter Speed Limits on Turnpike Projects
  • Section 545.355, Authority of County Commissioners Court to Alter Speed Limits (see also Transportation Code, Section 251.154, Maximum Reasonable and Prudent Speeds on County Roads)
  • Section 545.356, Authority of Municipality to Alter Speed Limits
  • Section 545.357, Public Hearing to Consider Speed Limits where Certain Schools Are Located
  • Section 545.358, Authority of Commanding Officer of United States Military Reservation to Alter Speed Limits
  • Section 545.359, Conflicting Designated Speed Limits
  • Section 545.360, Duty of Texas Transportation Commission and State Board of Education to Provide Information and Assistance
  • Section 545.361, Special Speed Limitations
  • Section 545.362, Temporary Speed Limits
  • Section 545.3625, Confidentiality of Violation Information: Fuel Conservation Speed Limit
  • Section 545.363, Minimum Speed Regulations
  • Section 545.364, (repealed by L. 1999, Chap. 1346(3), eff 9/1/99)
  • Section 545.365, Speed Limit Exception for Emergencies; Municipal Regulation.
Collectively, these sections are referred to as the “basic speed law.” The basic speed law is founded on the belief that the majority of motorists are willing to modify their driving behavior properly, as long as they are aware of the conditions around them. Speed zone regulations are based on Section 545.351, which states in part: “An operator may not drive at a speed greater than is reasonable or prudent under the circumstances then existing.”