Planning a trip to Massachusetts? Maybe you are considering a move to the state or have only just relocated.
No matter the reason, there is a multitude of things to look forward to when you are in the Bay State including amazing beaches, live events, beautiful rich forests, and stunning national parks.
If you have just moved to Massachusetts, are planning your next trip there, or simply driving through the state, there is a lot to think about, but one of the things you absolutely need to be aware of is the Massachusetts speed limit and the various maximum speeds you can travel on different roads and areas within the state.
If you are a driver, planning on learning how to drive, or, are preparing to drive whilst visiting the state, then knowledge of the different speed limits in Massachusetts is extremely important, whether you are driving through cities, on highways, or in any of the rural communities.
Speeding in Massachusetts, similar to most places in the US, can result in some hefty penalties and fines, and you do not want to receive a speeding ticket in Massachusetts as it can result in your license being suspended due to an accumulation of points!
Knowing the correct Massachusetts speed limit is not only about avoiding punishment. It is also about driving safely on the roads to prevent accidents. Driving within the maximum speed limit helps reduce the possibility of crashes and saves lives.
In Massachusetts, legislation is put in place to govern the safe use of the roads. Speed limits in school zones, for example, are established by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. The different limits highlight the fastest speeds you are legally allowed to drive when the conditions are good and the visibility is also good.
Obviously, a specific Massachusetts speed limit does not necessarily mean you have to drive at that exact pace all the time. You still need to assess the road conditions and surrounding environment to determine the best speed at which to drive (that is also within the stipulated limit).
Different speed limits are implemented based on several factors, including population density and type of road. For each community and highway, the speed limits are often posted on prominent signs along the roadway.
What are the different speed limits in Massachusetts?
Speed limits in Massachusetts range from a low of 20 mph to a maximum of 65 mph, depending on the type of area and zone you are in, or the vehicle you are driving. Here is a breakdown:
- 20 mph is the maximum speed limit in Massachusetts school zones.
- Residential areas follow a maximum speed limit of 30 mph.
- On an undivided rural highway (a road with one, two, or more lanes arranged within a single carriageway) speed limits vary between 45 mph and 55 mph.
- On a divided rural highway speed limits vary between 45 mph and 55 mph.
- Urban freeways have a maximum speed limit range of 45 mph to 65 mph. You must bear in mind that these speed limits can vary depending on construction and other determining factors.
- The maximum speed limit in Massachusetts on rural freeways is 65 mph.
With these different speed limits implemented in Massachusetts, it is important to pay attention to road signs. The last thing you want is to be slapped with a huge fine as a result of exceeding the speed limits in Massachusetts through a lapse in concentration.
Just in case you were curious, a Massachusetts speeding ticket will be handed to you if you speed 10 mph over the limit or less, the fixed penalty is $50 for this offense. However, there is also a further $50 fine for each ticket that goes to the state’s Head Injury Treatment Services Trust Fund. So, if you go any speed up to 10 mph over the speed limit, the fine is $100.
In addition to these fines, Massachusetts will charge an extra $10 per mph more than 10 mph over the posted speed limit! For example, if you were driving 85 mph in a 65 mph zone you would be charged $200, $100 for the initial penalty at 10 mph over, and then another $100 for surpassing the 10 mph over by another 10 mph.
Not only will you be charged with a hefty fine for abusing the speed limits in Massachusetts, but you also run the risk of receiving points on your license! In addition to this, if you receive a speeding ticket 3 times in one calendar year, you will have your license suspended for 30 days.
If you cause a speeding violation in Massachusetts it can, and depending on the severity, result in a maximum of 2 points on your license due to it being classed as a minor traffic violation. If you receive any points on your license, they will usually stay on your record for 6 years. Receiving points on your license is not worth it and will cost you more money by raising your insurance premiums, so be careful!
When visiting or relocating to Massachusetts, it is normal to think of all the fun things you can do. Knowledge of the speed limits in Massachusetts – and adhering to them – will ensure your time is well spent and minimize the chance of you being fined or receiving points on your license.
