To many people in South Carolina, getting a speeding ticket is something that is almost bound to happen at some point. While it may feel like a small incident and easy to shrug off, that is not always the case, especially when it feels unclear to the driver as to why exactly a ticket was issued in the first place.
A common misconception that a lot of motorists have is that as long as they are driving at or under the posted speed limit, they cannot be given a ticket for speeding. This is not actually true. As explained by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, a designated speed limit does not grant drivers the unilateral right to travel at that speed at all times but only when all of the influencing conditions make that a safe speed at which to travel.
The online driving education site, SafeMotorist.com, adds that drivers are expected to factor in any unusual hazards, weather conditions and the actions of other vehicles when determining what is a safe speed. These things can be somewhat subjective which may open the door for some drivers to get tickets when they are not exceeding a speed limit and when they believe they are operating their vehicles safely.
Also important to know is that even if a speed limit is not visibly posted, one does exist and drivers are expected to know the rules of the road. For example, on any residential street, the maximum speed limit is 30 miles per hour.
