You speed limits established by law These are essential rules and are on the basis of road coexistence. However, and although all drivers have learned speed limits, their disrespect is still among the most common road infractions.

It is of general knowledge that exceeding 120 km/h on a national highway (or other via) results in fines and possible additional penalties. But have you considered the opposite situation? What happens when a conductor circulates below the speed limit? Is there any associated fine?

Stay with us, because in this article we will clarify the rules on the minimum speed in the highway and the consequences of its non -compliance.

What is the minimum speed allowed in the highways in Portugal?

Although it seems to us something less serious, Driving below the minimum limit is considered an infraction.

As established by Road code, Article 26 establishes that drivers should not circulate at such a small speed that it causes unjustified embarrassment to other use of the road. Additionally, Article 27 Of course In the motorways the conductors cannot circulate at a speed of less than 50 km/hunless traffic intensity justifies it. In addition, as is justified by Article 27, in the highlights, the circulation of vehicles or set of vehicles are notable to reach a speed of over 60 km/h or to which a maximum speed equal to or less than that value has been fixed.

Can I be fined by circulating below the speed limit?

Yes, if circle below 50km/h on a highway in Portugal is subject to a fine that varies between 60 and 300 eurosas provided for in Article 26 (2) of the EC.

I was sanctioned. And now?

If a driver does not respect minimum speed limits on the highway and is charged, he must pay the fine, under penalty of seizure of the driving license and the vehicle documents, as well as a possible aggravation of the fine and procedural costs.

Will receive a guide to drive for 15 days, But if you do not pay during this period, the car will be seized.

Payment can be made in two ways:

To appeal this decision you must send a letter to ANSR, PSP or GNRaccording to the place of residence. The deadline for contestation is 15 days from the business day following the notification (if delivered by hand) or the reception warning (if sent by mail). If you have questions, read this article where we explain in detail how to turn and contest the fines of the authorities.

Exceptions to the minimum speed rule

There are some exceptions in compliance with the minimum speed on the highway. In these situations, drivers can circulate below this limit without being penalized just because the conditions of the road and the environment oblige it. The main exceptions are:

  • Intense traffic or congestion: If traffic jams are, drivers are not required to maintain minimal speed, as traffic fluidity prevents compliance with this rule.

  • Adverse weather conditions: In situations such as heavy rain, fog, snow or ice on the road, it is acceptable to reduce the speed below minimum for safety reasons.

  • Works on the road: If there are maintenance work or self -established works, temporary signs can be applied that change the speed limits. Do not forget that the temporary signs prevail over the vertical signs.

  • Vehicle damage or emergency: If the vehicle has a mechanical malfunction or other technical problem, the driver can reduce the speed or even touch Berma, but always ensuring the safety of other road users.

  • Emergency and special vehicles: Some vehicles, such as relief, road maintenance and special transportation, may circulate at reduced speeds when the situation requires it.

Even in justified cases, it is important to properly signal speed reduction to avoid accidents through emergency lights (“4 swings”).

Minimum speed in other types of roads

In Portugal, the legislation establishes only a mandatory minimum speed limit on the self -established. However, in other ways, although there is no minimum fixed limit by law, drivers should avoid circulating at excessively reduced speed without justification, as this may configure an improper driving infraction, as we had seen in Article 26 of the Road Code.

So, to avoid problems and ensure driving Secure, it is essential that drivers are always aware of their speed, respect the standards of the road code and adapt the driving to road conditions. Thus, they contribute not only to their own safety, but also to the flow of traffic and the protection of all users on the road. Therefore, always check the car panel and adjust according to the road and the situation you are in.

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