While speeding tickets are far more common, it may surprise you to learn that driving too slowly can also lead to a traffic ticket in North Carolina. If an officer believes you are impeding the normal flow of traffic by driving significantly below the posted speed limit, they could give you a citation for slow driving.
At Browning & Long, PLLC, our experienced traffic ticket lawyers understand the frustration of receiving a slow driving ticket when you are just trying to be a safe driver. We're here to explain North Carolina's minimum speed limit laws and discuss your options for fighting the speeding ticket in NC.
North Carolina's Driving Too Slowly Traffic Ticket Laws
While you probably understand that it’s against the law to speed, you may not realize North Carolina also has laws addressing minimum speed limits. Under N.C.G.S. § 20-141(h), drivers cannot operate a motor vehicle on the highway at such a slow speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic.
If an officer determines you are driving unreasonably slowly under the conditions, you could get a traffic citation. Driving too far below the speed limit can be considered dangerous, especially if it causes a safety hazard for other motorists who must brake or swerve suddenly to avoid slow vehicles.
Exceptions to North Carolina Minimum Speed Limits Laws
In some situations, driving under the posted speed limit is permissible or even necessary for safety. These may include:
- Inclement weather conditions like heavy rain, snow, or fog
- Road work or accident zones that require reduced speeds
- Mechanical issues with your vehicle
- Slow-moving farm equipment or oversized loads
If you received a ticket for driving slowly due to factors beyond your control, our Charlotte traffic ticket lawyers can help argue these points in your defense to fight your speeding ticket in NC.
Steps to Take If You Are Pulled Over for Driving Too Slowly
If you see flashing lights in your rearview mirror, it's essential to handle the traffic stop calmly and correctly, even if you believe the reason for the stop is unfair. Take these steps to protect your rights:
- Safely pull over to the right side of the road as soon as possible. Use your turn signal to indicate you are complying.
- Turn off your engine and keep your hands visible on the steering wheel. Inform the officer if you need to reach for your license or registration.
- Be polite and respectful. However, avoid admitting guilt or arguing with the officer. You should exercise your right to remain silent.
- If the officer issues a citation, accept it without argument. You'll have an opportunity to contest the ticket in court.
- Contact our knowledgeable traffic ticket lawyers as soon as possible after the stop. We can advise you on the next steps and start building your defense.
Remember, anything you say during the stop can be used as evidence against you. It is best to limit your conversation with the police officer and seek legal counsel before making any statements.
How Our Lawyers Can Fight a Slow Driving Speeding Ticket in NC
Getting a traffic ticket for any reason is stressful, but a citation for slow driving can be especially frustrating and unfair. Taking these charges seriously is important, as our state has many hidden costs associated with traffic tickets. The penalties can include fines, points on your license, and increased insurance premiums.
Depending on the circumstances, our legal team may raise these potential defenses to fight your speeding ticket in NC:
- Arguing that your reduced speed was reasonable and prudent based on conditions
- Demonstrating that you didn't impede traffic flow
- Showing dashcam footage or other evidence that supports your case
- Presenting evidence that the traffic stop was not justified or that your constitutional rights were violated
- Our Charlotte traffic ticket lawyers may also be able to employ one or more of the following strategies in your defense:
- Negotiating with the prosecutor for reduced charges through a plea bargain
- Recommending traffic school courses to mitigate the penalties
- Seeking a Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC) to avoid points and insurance rate increases
At Browning & Long, our traffic ticket lawyers can evaluate your case's specific facts and build a customized defense strategy. We are former prosecutors and have extensive experience handling all types of traffic matters throughout Mecklenburg County. We’re ready to put our experience and knowledge to work for you.
