Types of Speed Limits

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There are two types of speed limits that a driver encounters: regulatory and advisory.

Regulatory

Speed limits posted with white and black signs are maximum speeds that a road user must adhere to under average or ideal conditions. These are referred to as regulatory speed limits. Below are examples of regulatory speed limits.

Speed limit signs, black text on white background: SPEED LIMIT 55; SPEED LIMIT 15 WHEN CHILDREN ARE PRESENT. 

Advisory

Speed limits posted with a yellow or orange sign are warning signs that are used to advise a road user of a recommended driving speed for an upcoming condition or hazard. These are used in situations where there is a small section of road that should be traveled at a lower speed. These can be used at curves, intersections with reduced visibility, or within work zones. These signs are advisory and not enforceable in Wisconsin unless a driver is driving too fast for conditions. Below are examples of advisory speed limits.

Speed advisory signs, yellow signs with black numbers, 35 and 45 miles per hour Speed advisory signs, orange and yellow signs with black numbers and letters: 45, 15 and 35 miles per hour.