Idaho speed limits, laws and fines
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The following is an overview of the laws, restrictions, and penalties associated with speeding in Idaho.
Speed limits in Idaho
Idaho has one of the highest top speed limits in the United States, and in 2014 the limit was raised to 80 mph on rural interstates and highways.
80 mph: rural highways and interstates
70 mph: top speed for trucks
70 mph: Most two- and four-lane highways.
65 mph: urban freeways
60 mph or less: roads with traffic lights
35 mph: residential, urban and business areas
20 mph: school zones (excluding Grangeville, which has a school zone speed limit of 15 mph)
Idaho code at reasonable and reasonable speed
The law of maximum speed:
According to Section 49-654(1) of the Idaho Motor Vehicle Code, "No one shall operate a vehicle at a speed that is more than reasonable and reasonable, taking into account the actual and potential hazards and conditions then existing."
Minimum speed law:
According to Section 49-655 of the Idaho Motor Vehicle Code, "No one shall operate a motor vehicle at such a low speed as to interfere with the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, except when the reduction in speed is necessary for safe operation or in accordance with the law."
Due to differences in speedometer calibration, tire size, and inaccuracies in speed detection technology, it is rare for an officer to stop a driver for speeding less than five miles. However, technically, any excess can be considered a speed violation, so it is recommended not to go beyond the established limits.
Although it can be difficult in Idaho to challenge a speeding ticket due to the absolute speed limit law, a driver can go to court and plead not guilty on the basis of one of the following:
The driver may object to the determination of the speed. To qualify for this protection, the driver must know how his or her speed was determined and then learn to disprove its accuracy.
The driver may claim that, due to an emergency, the driver violated the speed limit to prevent injury or damage to himself or others.
The driver may report a case of misidentification. If a police officer measures the speed of a driver and subsequently has to find him again in a traffic jam, it is quite possible that he made a mistake and stopped the wrong car.
Speeding ticket in Idaho
First-time offenders may:
Be fined up to $100
Suspend license for up to one year
Reckless driving ticket in Idaho
In Idaho, there is no set speed limit at which speeding is considered reckless driving. This definition depends on the circumstances surrounding the infringement.
First-time offenders may:
Fine from 25 to 300 dollars
To be sentenced to imprisonment for a term of five to 90 days.
Suspend the license for up to 30 days.
Violators may be required to attend a traffic school and/or may reduce their speeding ticket by attending these classes.
