Hawaii Drivers Permit Practice Test

When approaching a "reduced speed ahead" sign, what should drivers do?

1. Maintain their current speed until the next sign.

2. Begin to reduce their vehicle's speed.

3. Speed up to keep up with traffic.

4. Ignore the sign as it is not enforceable.

The correct answer is: Begin to reduce their vehicle's speed.

When approaching a "reduced speed ahead" sign, drivers should begin to reduce their vehicle's speed. This sign serves as an important warning that the speed limit will decrease soon, alerting drivers to prepare for a lower speed limit to ensure safe driving conditions. Decreasing speed in advance allows for a smooth transition and helps maintain safety, especially in areas where there may be increased hazards such as construction zones, pedestrian activity, or changes in road conditions. Maintaining current speed until the next sign would likely lead to approaching an area with a lower speed limit too quickly, which could result in unsafe driving behavior or potential violations of speed regulations. Similarly, speeding up to keep pace with traffic can create dangerous situations, particularly if other drivers are responding appropriately by slowing down. Ignoring the sign because it appears unenforceable undermines safety protocols and can result in accidents or penalties. Therefore, the most prudent and responsible action when encountering a "reduced speed ahead" sign is to begin reducing speed as indicated.