Minimum speed: these are the speed limits on each road

We all know exactly what the maximum speed is at which we can drive on each type of road of the road network. If we’re not sure, there are many signs on each one that show it and remind us. And we know that if we exceed that maximum speed, we will face a financial penalty and, in some cases, the loss of driving licence points.

But what many people don’t know is that there are also minimum speed limits. A speed at which driving is considered to be dangerous and can put other road users at risk. If you drive at a speed lower than is reasonable, you can receive a fine, so this must also be taken into account.

Minimum speeds on different roads

The minimum speed at which you can drive on each type of road is related to the maximum speed on that road. Driving at 40 km/h on a motorway or expressway, where the maximum speed is set at 120 km/h, can pose a serious risk to all the vehicles travelling on it.

As a general rule, the minimum speed at which you can drive on each road is half the maximum speed. This does not mean that you cannot drive at a lower speed, but only if traffic conditions justify it. That is, on a motorway or expressway, which has a maximum speed of 120 km/h, you may not drive below 60 km/h.

This means that all vehicles that do not reach this speed are prohibited from using these roads. On conventional roads, with a speed limit of 90 km/h, the minimum speed is 45 km/h. Obviously, there are occasions when you cannot even drive at that speed, so it is permitted to do so if there is a justification for it.

As for fines, if the officers consider that there is no justification for driving at those speeds below the minimum for each road, these can amount to 200 euros. However, in this case, no driving licence points will be deducted.