Off-Season vs. On-Season Speed Limits in North Carolina Explained

Speed limits may be challenging to understand in North Carolina, especially when they seem to change constantly. One of the most confusing aspects of traffic law for many residents is the distinction between “off-season” and “on-season” speed limits, and this is a common practice across North Carolina. But how does this system work? What happens if you get a speeding ticket? Can a traffic law attorney in North Carolina help?

North Carolina Reduces Speed Limits During Peak Travel Seasons

In May of 2025, the North Carolina Department of Transportation announced that it was going to reduce speed limits in certain areas. This has become a common move by the government, and it does so to “improve safety” during the peak travel season in the summer. The reduced speed limits impacted sections of N.C. 12 in Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Corolla, and Frisco. Other affected areas include Cape Hatteras National Seashore, south of Avon. 

While the speed limit only drops from 45 miles per hour to 35 miles per hour, this may be enough to catch many drivers off guard. In fact, many drivers each year get speeding tickets because of these changes, which often occur with little warning ahead of time. 

Off-Season Speed Limits Return on September 15th

Coastal Review reports that the off-season speed limits will return on September 15th. In other words, the regular speed limit of 45 miles per hour has once again gone into effect. This means that for approximately half of the year, specific sections of N.C 12 and other roads have completely different speed limits. 

Many other states follow similar systems, often using “variable speed limits” or “VSLs” on certain roads. In theory, these speed limits are meant to prevent accidents and improve safety – especially during periods of extreme weather. In reality, these variable speed limits often confuse drivers and lead to needless speeding tickets. 

In North Carolina, you can face a criminal charge for driving 15 mph over the speed limit. For example, you might reach a speed of 50 miles per hour in an “on-season” speed limit zone. If you’re not aware that the speed limit has recently dropped to 35 miles per hour, you could face serious penalties. 

Even if you break the speed limit by just 10 miles per hour, you could still face fines, points on your license, and the potential loss of your driving privileges. This might occur if you forget about the on-season limit and drive at the normal speed of 45 miles per hour. 

Can a Speeding Ticket Lawyer in North Carolina Help Me?

A speeding ticket lawyer in North Carolina may be able to help if you face a speeding offense. If you received your ticket after driving in an area with confusing speed limits, you may be able to push back and fight your offense with ease. Doing so could save you from points on your license, revocation, and the loss of your driving privileges. Contact Coastal South Law today for more information about your next steps.