While it may seem safer, driving too slowly can actually be dangerous—especially on highways—by disrupting traffic flow and increasing the risk of collisions. In certain situations, it can be just as hazardous as speeding. Taking this into consideration, can you get a ticket for driving too slow? Yes, you can.
In California, motorists can be fined for driving excessively slow if it disrupts the regular movement of traffic. This rule falls under California Vehicle Code 22400, which forbids operating a vehicle at a speed low enough to obstruct or delay other drivers.
What are the hazards of driving under the speed limit? What are the consequences? How’s liability determined when slow driving causes an accident? Find the answers to these questions in this original article by Megeredchian Law.
Why Can You Get a Ticket for Driving Too Slow?
You can get a ticket for driving too slowly because it can be just as dangerous as speeding.
Driving significantly below the speed limit can disrupt the normal flow of traffic, forcing other drivers to brake suddenly, change lanes unpredictably, or become frustrated—all of which increases the risk of accidents.
Additionally, driving too slowly in the left or passing lane can result in a citation, as this lane is typically reserved for faster-moving traffic. Some highways also have posted minimum speed limits, and failing to meet them without a valid reason can lead to a ticket.
There are exceptions. If you’re driving slowly due to bad weather, poor road conditions, or mechanical issues, the law usually allows it—as long as you’re not creating an unnecessary hazard. The key is whether your speed is appropriate for the conditions and whether it’s impeding traffic unnecessarily.
The key point is that driving too slowly becomes illegal when it disrupts traffic flow or poses a danger to other drivers. Simply put, being overly cautious or inattentive to the pace of traffic can get you pulled over and fined.
Real-Life Example
Imagine you’re driving on a two-lane rural highway in California, like Highway 1 along the coast. You’re going 35 mph in a 55 mph zone, enjoying the scenery. Behind you, a line of cars starts forming because there are limited opportunities to pass. Within minutes, five or more vehicles are trailing you, stuck and unable to go around safely.
Under California Vehicle Code §21656, you’re legally required to pull over at the first safe turnout to let the cars pass. If you ignore this and keep driving slowly without yielding, a CHP officer can stop you and issue a ticket for impeding the flow of traffic.
Even though you’re not speeding or driving recklessly, your slow pace creates congestion and frustration, which increases the risk of unsafe passing or road rage incidents.
Common Hazards of Driving Below the Speed Limit
Disrupting the Flow of Traffic
Slow drivers can cause others to brake suddenly or change lanes abruptly, increasing the chance of collisions.
Increased Risk of Rear-End Collisions
Drivers approaching at normal speeds may not anticipate a vehicle moving significantly slower, especially around curves or over hills.
Encouraging Unsafe Passing
Frustrated drivers may attempt risky passes on two-lane roads, leading to head-on collisions or sideswipes.
Causing Traffic Congestion
Consistently slow speeds in higher-speed zones can back up traffic, especially during peak hours, contributing to delays and bottlenecks.
Road Rage or Aggressive Driving from Others
Holding up traffic can lead to frustration and aggressive behavior from other drivers, which may escalate into dangerous driving situations.
Violating Minimum Speed or “Impeding Traffic” Laws
In some jurisdictions, driving too slowly without cause is a traffic violation that can result in a citation.
Blocking Emergency or Fast Lanes
Driving too slowly in the left or designated passing lane can obstruct emergency vehicles or faster-moving traffic, violating the purpose of those lanes.
Consequences of Driving Below the Speed Limit
Traffic Ticket and Fine
If you impede traffic without valid reason—such as safe operation—you face a base fine of $35. After assessments and fees, the total amount is approximately $238 for a first-time offense as of 2025.
One Point on DMV Record
A conviction adds one point to your driving record, which can contribute to insurance premium increases and trigger potential license suspension after accumulating multiple points.
Higher Costs for Repeat Offenders
If you have prior moving violations within three years, the fine increases by about $50 per prior conviction, pushing the total above $288.
Potential Liability in Accidents
Should your excessively slow driving contribute to a collision—especially on highways—you could be found legally liable. That may result in financial responsibility for property damage, medical costs, or both.
Possible Court Appearance
While some traffic tickets permit payment by mail, you may be required to appear in court if accused of impeding traffic. Failing to appear can lead to further penalties.
What Happens If Someone Causes an Accident by Driving Too Slowly?
If someone causes an accident by driving too slowly, they can be held legally responsible.
If a driver violates Vehicle Code Section 22400 VC and causes a crash, they may be considered negligent per se—a legal doctrine that presumes negligence when a law designed to protect public safety is broken. Once this presumption applies, the burden often shifts to the driver to demonstrate that their actions were reasonable under the circumstances.
Even if found negligent per se, the driver may still be entitled to partial compensation for their own injuries or losses. This is due to California’s comparative fault system, which allows multiple parties to share responsibility for an accident. For instance, if both the slow driver and another driver acted carelessly, the court may assign each a percentage of fault. Any damages awarded are then adjusted according to that percentage.
It’s also important to understand that negligence must be proven. Courts consider evidence such as traffic citations, witness statements, road conditions, and surveillance footage. If the driver had a valid reason to slow down—like mechanical issues or a sudden obstruction—they might avoid full liability.
Lastly, a driver who causes an accident by driving too slowly may be sued in a personal injury case. The injured party could seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and vehicle repairs. Depending on the outcome, the at-fault driver’s insurance rates may increase, and they could be held financially responsible for a portion of the damages.Were you injured in an accident caused by a slow driver? Were you the one driving too slowly? California car accident lawyers at Megeredchian Law want to hear your story. Call (866) 359-0807 to speak directly with an attorney—no middlemen, no call centers. Pursue maximum compensation with experienced, aggressive lawyers who know how to win.