New traffic rules in Slovakia

Compulsory use of winter tyres, a ban on passing for lories of more than 7,5 tons, compulsory use of lights and new speed limits – these are the new Slovakian traffic regulations valid since 
1 February 2009.

As described on the homepage of the Slovakian Ministry of the Interior, there are a number of changes concerning traffic regulations which have already entered into force. They provide a general ban on overtaking other vehicles for all vehicles of more than 7,5t on motorways and dual carriageways.

Furthermore using winter tyres will be compulsory between November 15 and March 31 regardless of prevailing weather conditions. Thus all vehicles up to 3,5t must be equipped with snow tyres. Heavier ones must be equipped with snow tyres at least on the driving axle.

New speed limits have also been set up. The maximum speed in urban areas is now 50 km/h. Drivers of vehicles of more than 3,5t have to observe a speed limit of 90km/h outside urban areas.

The compulsory use of lights which has been extended from the winter term to all year is also new.