California: Speed, Right-of-Way & Legal Rules Questions
7 real, verified California driving-test questions on speed, right-of-way & legal rules, each with the correct answer and a full explanation below. Want to practice these interactively instead? Start a Speed, Right-of-Way & Legal Rules practice round.
1. If you are involved in a traffic collision in California, you are required to complete and submit a written report (SR 1) to the DMV within 10 days:
Why: California requires the SR 1 "Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California" within 10 days whenever a collision causes an injury, a death, or more than $1,000 in property damage — regardless of fault. This is separate from any police or insurance report. (The threshold was $750 before it was raised to $1,000 on January 1, 2017.)
2. On most California highways, what is the ideal maximum speed limit under good conditions?
Why: California's driver handbook sets the ideal maximum speed limit on most state highways at 65 mph under good conditions.
3. In California, the speed limit drops to 55 mph on a two-lane undivided highway and for a vehicle:
Why: California caps speed at 55 mph on two-lane undivided highways and for any vehicle towing a trailer, regardless of the limit posted for other traffic.
4. You approach a California "blind intersection" — no stop signs, yield signs, or signals at any corner, with obstructed views. Unless otherwise posted, the speed limit is:
Why: California sets a 15 mph speed limit at blind intersections, where no traffic control device manages any corner and visibility is obstructed.
5. Unless a different limit is posted, what is the speed limit in an alley in California?
Why: California sets a default 15 mph speed limit in alleys.
6. Under California law, a road qualifies as an "alley" if it is no wider than:
Why: California legally defines an alley as any road no wider than 25 feet.
7. A California road segment designated a "Safety Enhanced–Double Fine Zone" means:
Why: Safety Enhanced–Double Fine Zones are designated because of increased collision-related injuries and fatalities, and moving-violation fines are doubled there.
More California Topics
- DUI Laws & Penalties (9)
- Minor & Provisional Licensing (6)
- Parking Rules & Technique (9)
- Other Topics (5)
Rules and requirements change — always confirm current details with CA DMVbefore your exam. Take the full California practice test or check the California cheat sheet.