MotorwayHungary

Learn traffic rules with clear explanations and visual examples in our illustrated book, designed to make studying simple and engaging.


2. Motorway

A motorway is a road specially designed and signposted for motor traffic. Motorways normally have separate carriageways for opposing traffic, controlled access through designated entrances and exits, no direct access to neighbouring properties, and no level crossings with other roads, railways or paths.

Special traffic rules apply on motorways. The permitted road users, speed limits, lane rules, tolls and emergency procedures vary between countries, so drivers must follow the local traffic signs and regulations.

M1 motorway approaching Budapest from the direction of Vienna. (Hungary)
Wikimedia.org • L.Kenzel • CC BY
How can you recognise a motorway?

A motorway is normally identified by a special motorway sign at its entrance. It commonly has separate carriageways, controlled entrances and exits, and no ordinary intersections or direct access to neighbouring properties.

Who may use a motorway?

Motorways are primarily intended for motor vehicles capable of travelling safely at motorway speeds. Pedestrians, cyclists, animals and certain slow vehicles are generally prohibited, but the exact access requirements differ between countries.

What is the speed limit on a motorway?

There is no universal motorway speed limit. The applicable limit depends on the country, road section, vehicle category and driving conditions. Posted or variable speed-limit signs may replace the general national limit.

How should you enter a motorway?

Use the entrance or acceleration lane to observe motorway traffic and adjust your speed where possible. Enter only when there is a safe gap and follow the local priority and merging rules.

How should you leave a motorway?

Move into the correct lane in good time and signal when required. Enter the exit or deceleration lane before reducing your speed, unless traffic, signs or road conditions require you to slow down earlier.

Which lane should you use on a motorway?

Follow the local keep-left or keep-right rule and any lane-direction signs. Lanes closer to the centre of the motorway are commonly used for overtaking, but lane-use rules differ between countries and vehicle categories.

Can you stop on a motorway?

Voluntary stopping and parking are normally permitted only in designated parking or service areas. Drivers may still have to stop because of congestion, an emergency or another unavoidable situation.

Can you reverse or make a U-turn on a motorway?

Reversing, making a U-turn and driving against the direction of traffic are generally prohibited. If you miss an exit, continue to the next suitable exit.

What should you do if your vehicle breaks down?

Move the vehicle out of the traffic lanes when this can be done safely, activate the hazard warning lights and follow the local breakdown procedures. Leave the vehicle safely, keep away from moving traffic and use a warning triangle or safety vest where required by local law.

What is the difference between a motorway and an expressway?

A motorway normally has the highest level of access control and is governed by specific motorway rules. An expressway may have similar characteristics but may permit different road users or contain lower-standard junctions. The legal distinction varies between countries.

1 Hungary 2 Motorway 3 Residential area 4 Zone 5 Speed limit 6 Bike path 7 Pedestrian warning 8 Pedestrian zone 9 Slope 10 Bus stop 11 Stop sign 12 Give way 13 Roundabout 14 Priority road 15 Road narrowing 16 Priority over oncoming traffic 17 Give way to oncoming traffic 18 Pedestrian crossing 19 Railway crossing 20 Mandatory direction 21 School area 22 Overtaking 23 Crossing animals 24 Slippery road 25 Chevron 26 Wrong-way driving 27 Roadworks 28 Height limit 29 Weight limit 30 Radar speed sign 31 Selective barriers 32 Priority at the next junction 33 Traffic lights 34 Traffic lights warning 35 Road markings 36 Countdown markers 37 Traffic mirror 38 Cycling route 39 Parking 40 No parking 41 No stopping 42 Disabled parking 43 Reversing 44 U-turn 45 Uncontrolled crossroad 46 Road surface 47 City limit 48 Licence plate 49 Charging station 50 Dangers 51 Cyclist 52 Moped 53 Car 54 Bus 55 Police 56 Ambulance 57 Taxi 58 European emission standard 59 Pothole 60 Path 61 Particulates 62 Air pollution 63 Rush hour 64 Road code 65 Two-way traffic 66 Street gutter 67 Cargo bike 68 Forestry vehicle 69 Construction vehicle 70 Semi-trailer truck 71 Trolleybus 72 Speed pedelec 73 Delivery vehicle 74 Idling 75 Tow truck 76 Four-wheel drive 77 No vehicles 78 Bicycle 79 Motorcycle equipment 80 Rail track 81 Caravan 82 Trailer 83 Tow hitch 84 Fire truck 85 Siren 86 Convoy 87 Emergency vehicle lighting 88 Agricultural machinery 89 Electric bicycle 90 Electric vehicle 91 Pedelec 92 Quadricycle 93 Microcar 94 All-terrain vehicle 95 Van 96 Recreational vehicle 97 Scooter 98 Trikke 99 Personal mobility device 100 Skateboard ...