Maine speed limits and key traffic laws

By the end of this topic you can

• You can state Maine's default speed limits and when each applies.
• You can explain when the 15 mph school zone limit is in force.
• You can decide when it is legal and safe to pass.
• You can say what to do for a stopped school bus or a stopped emergency vehicle.

What you need to know and understand

• Unless posted otherwise, the limit is 25 mph in business, residential and built-up areas and 45 mph on other public ways.
• The school zone limit is 15 mph during recess, during school opening and closing times (half an hour either side), or when school speed signs are flashing.
• Speeding fines double in school zones and in posted work zones.
• Driving 30 mph or more over the limit is a crime and can bring a 30-day suspension.
• On interstates and other divided controlled-access highways, the state may post limits up to 75 mph.
• You must always drive at a speed that is reasonable for traffic, road surface and conditions, even below the posted limit.

How Maine sets your speed

Posted limits are the maximum in ideal conditions, not a target. The law also says you must slow to 15 mph within 50 feet of an intersection where your view is blocked, unless a stop sign or signal controls the cross traffic. Driving so slowly that you hold up normal traffic is also against the law unless you need to slow for safety.

On the Maine Turnpike and interstates, speeding by less than 30 mph over the limit carries a fine of at least $50.

Passing on two-lane roads

You need a long clear gap to pass. At 50 to 55 mph a pass takes 10 to 12 seconds, and you should not start one within about a third of a mile of a hill or curve. Finish your pass before a no-passing zone begins.

• Do not pass where there is a solid yellow line on your side.
• Do not pass at intersections, railroad crossings or bridges.
• Do not pass by driving onto the shoulder.
• When passing a bicycle, leave at least 3 feet.

School buses and roadside emergencies

When a school bus stops with red lights flashing, stop from either direction and wait until the bus moves or the driver signals you on. You do not have to stop if a curb or other physical barrier separates your side of the road from the bus. A first offense brings a fine of at least $250.

When you approach a stopped emergency vehicle or public service vehicle with its lights on, move to a lane not next to it if you can. If you cannot, slow to a safe speed as you pass. The minimum fine is $275.

Common mistakes

• Assuming a country road with no signs is 55 mph. The Maine default is 45 mph unless posted.
• Driving at the posted limit in snow or fog. You must slow down for conditions.
• Passing a school bus on a two-lane road because you are going the other way. You must stop from either direction.
• Starting a pass with a hill or curve ahead.

Test yourself: Maine speed limits and key traffic laws

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Avoiding Moose and Deer Collisions in Maine
• Learning to Drive in Maine
• Maine 70 Hour Driving Log