Speed
Keeping to the speed limit is not just about obeying the law — it is about safety. Driving too fast is one of the leading causes of crashes in The Bahamas [2] .
Legal Essentials
These are things you must follow under the law:
Default limits:
Special limits: The Minister may prescribe lower or higher limits for specific roads or vehicles [1] . Always follow posted signs.
Penalties for speeding:
- First offence: $250–$500 fine
- Second offence: $500–$1,000 fine
- Third offence: Possible disqualification up to 12 months [3]
➡ For a full breakdown of offences, fines, and licence suspensions, see Speed Limits (Law) and Penalties & Offences.
Driving to Conditions
Even when you are within the limit, you must slow down in these situations:
- Approaching bends, junctions, pedestrian crossings, or busy markets
- On wet or unsealed (dirt) roads
- At night or in fog/rain where visibility is reduced
- Near schools, bus stops, or crowds of pedestrians [4]
Remember: if you double your speed, your stopping distance more than triples.
Safe Following Distance
The Highway Code advises:
- Leave at least 2 seconds between you and the vehicle in front on dry roads.
- In rain or poor conditions, double this gap.
- Large vehicles need even more space to stop safely [4] .
Exam Pointers
Frequently Asked Questions
Does The Bahamas have speed limits?
Yes. The law sets national limits: 25 mph in Nassau and settlements, 30 mph outside city limits where not otherwise posted, and 45 mph outside settlements unless signs say otherwise.
What is the speed limit in Nassau?
The speed limit is 25 mph within Nassau city limits.
What is the speed limit in Family Island settlements?
The limit is 25 mph within any settlement.
What is the general speed limit outside settlements?
The default is 45 mph, unless a different limit is posted.
Can you go over 10% of the speed limit?
No. Legally you cannot exceed the limit at all — not 10%, not 5 mph, not even 0.05 mph. In practice, some enforcement equipment may only measure whole mph, but the law does not allow any tolerance.
Can you be penalized even if you stay under the limit?
Yes. If your speed is unsafe for the conditions (for example, driving too fast in rain, fog, or near schools), you may be guilty of dangerous or careless driving, even within the limit.