Driving in Inclement Weather in Arkansas

1. What is the minimum speed limit during inclement weather in Arkansas?


The minimum speed limit during inclement weather in Arkansas is 45 mph.

2. What are the laws regarding the use of headlights during inclement weather in Arkansas?


In Arkansas, headlights must be used at all times during inclement weather, including fog, rain, snow, sleet, and hail. Headlights must also be used when visibility is reduced due to smoke, dust, or other weather conditions. All vehicles on the roadway must have their headlights on at all times when visibility is reduced.

3. Is it required to have winter tires in Arkansas during inclement weather?


No, there is no requirement to have winter tires in Arkansas during inclement weather. However, it is recommended to have winter tires, especially in the mountainous regions of the state, as they provide better traction in snow, ice, and slush conditions.

4. What items should be included in a vehicle’s emergency kit in Arkansas?


A vehicle emergency kit in Arkansas should include, but is not limited to:
• Jumper cables
• Blankets
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Reflective safety triangles and/or flares
• Tire sealant/tire inflator
• First aid kit
• Extra clothing and shoes
• Non-perishable snacks and bottled water
• Basic hand tools
• Spare tire, tire jack, and lug wrench
• Fire extinguisher

5. What are the laws regarding the use of windshield wipers during inclement weather in Arkansas?


In Arkansas, drivers are required to use their windshield wipers when visibility is decreased due to weather conditions such as rain, snow, sleet, or fog. It is illegal to drive without them during inclement weather.

6. Are there fines for not following the speed limit during inclement weather in Arkansas?


Yes. Arkansas has a Basic Speed Law that states that drivers cannot drive faster than conditions permit, even if the posted speed limit allows for faster speeds. Fines for exceeding the speed limit during inclement weather can range from $20 to $500.

7. Is it legal to use studded snow tires in Arkansas?


No, it is illegal to use studded tires in Arkansas.

8. Are there any special requirements for the use of chains or snow cables on tires in Arkansas?


Yes, there are special requirements for the use of chains or snow cables on tires in Arkansas. According to Arkansas state law, all vehicles must be equipped with chains or snow cables at all times when operating on an interstate or other highway in icy or snow-covered conditions. The chains or cables must be properly installed and securely fastened to the vehicle’s tires. Chains or snow cables must not be used on vehicles with a gross weight exceeding 12,000 pounds.

9. What is the maximum speed limit on mountain passes during inclement weather in Arkansas?


The maximum speed limit on mountain passes during inclement weather in Arkansas is 45 mph.

10. How often should vehicle tires be inspected for wear and tear during inclement weather in Arkansas?


Vehicle tires should be inspected for wear and tear before every drive in inclement weather in Arkansas. Additionally, it is a good practice to check the tire pressure and tread depth as needed.

11. What are the laws regarding the use of fog lights during inclement weather in Arkansas?


In Arkansas, fog lights may be used when visibility is reduced to less than 500 feet. Fog lights should be turned off when visibility improves. Fog lights should not be used with the high beam setting. Additionally, it is illegal in Arkansas to use fog lights when not driving in fog, rain, or snow.

12. Is it required to have a warning device if a vehicle becomes stranded during inclement weather in Arkansas?


Yes, it is required to have a warning device such as a reflective triangle or flares if a vehicle becomes stranded during inclement weather in Arkansas.

13. How often should vehicle brakes be inspected for wear and tear during inclement weather in Arkansas?


It is recommended that vehicle brakes be inspected at least twice a year, or every 6,000 miles, in Arkansas (and most states) regardless of weather conditions. However, during inclement weather it is especially important to have brakes inspected regularly to ensure they are in proper working order.

14. Are there any special requirements for using 4-wheel drive vehicles during inclement weather in Arkansas?


Yes, Arkansas state law requires that 4-wheel drive vehicles use tires with a minimum tread depth of 4/32 inch when traveling on public roads in inclement weather. Drivers should also take extra caution and use extra care when operating a 4-wheel drive vehicle in wet or icy conditions.

15. Is it legal to tailgate other vehicles during inclement weather in Arkansas?


No, tailgating other vehicles is not legal in Arkansas.

16. Are there any special requirements for using all-wheel drive vehicles during inclement weather in Arkansas?


The Arkansas Department of Transportation recommends that all-wheel drive vehicles should be equipped with snow tires or tire chains when driving in inclement weather. Drivers should also maintain a safe following distance and be sure to drive according to the road conditions.

17. Are there fines for not following chain control regulations during inclement weather in Arkansas?


Yes. Arkansas state law makes it a violation to drive too fast for conditions or fail to obey chain control regulations when inclement weather is present. The fines for speeding or failing to obey chain control regulations are up to $200 and/or 30 days in jail.

18. What is the minimum insurance coverage required for vehicles driving on highways during inclement weather in Arkansas?


The minimum insurance coverage required for vehicles driving on highways during inclement weather in Arkansas is liability insurance with limits of 25/50/25. This means $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.

19. How often should vehicle windshield wipers be replaced during inclement weather in Arkansas?


It is recommended that vehicle windshield wipers be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on the amount of use and exposure to inclement weather conditions.

20. Are there any restrictions on parking on roadsides during inclement weather in Arkansas?


Yes, there are restrictions on parking on roadsides during inclement weather in Arkansas. Depending on the severity of the weather, you may be restricted from parking along roadsides in certain areas or on certain highways. For more information, contact your local police department for specific regulations.