TOPEKA (KSNT) – Speeding drivers can cause big problems on Kansas’ highways, but what about those who are going too slow?
Drivers on the highways of Kansas may get frustrated when a fellow traveler passes by going far above the posted speed limit. But just as going too fast can cause crashes, road rage and other issues, so too can going too slow for highway speeds.
27 News reached out to the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) this week to find out what problems come about when drivers travel too slowly on the highway. The Kansas Turnpike and rural segments of freeway have posted speed limits of up to 75 mph with a 40 mph minimum, according to the KHP website.
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KHP spokeswoman April McCollum said there is a law in Kansas regarding the minimum speed regulation. It specifies that Kansas’ head of transportation or local authorities have the ability to designate minimum speed limits within their jurisdictions based on the results of an engineering and traffic investigation.
“No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic except when reduced speed is necessary for safe operation or in compliance with law.”
Kansas Statute 8-1561(a) excerpt
KHP troopers do issue citations for drivers who are found to be going to slow and violating the above law. McCollum said the KHP issued the following number of citations over the past few years:
- 2020 – 63.
- 2021 – 50.
- 2022 – 40.
- 2023 – 42.
- 2024 – 49.
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“Driving significantly slower than the flow of traffic can cause other drivers to react abruptly, leading to an increased risk of traffic crashes,” McCollum said.
Drivers are allowed some wiggle room on this depending on current circumstances on the highway. However, drivers that aren’t able to maintain the right speed are encouraged to get off the road if possible.
“Drivers are permitted to travel at a reduced speed for safety purposes, such as adverse road conditions or poor visibility,” McCollum said. “Otherwise, vehicles that are unable to maintain a minimum speed should be removed from the roadway.”
McCollum said the KHP generally asks that all drivers put away distractions while traveling on the state’s highways and make sure everyone is wearing their seat belts. She also encourages drivers to obey the posted speed limit as well.
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“Buckling up is the single most effective thing you can do to protect yourself in a crash,” McCollum said.
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