📋 Tender Overview
The pilot project on the highway between Plana nad Luznici and Usilny near Ceske Budejovice enables to increase speed up to 150 km per hour. This is the first practical verification of whether a higher speed can be safely introduced on modern highway sections without increasing the accident.
The selected section of the D3 motorway is equipped with variable traffic signs for this purpose to adjust the speed according to current conditions. Test operation will show us how this system works in practice and how the smoothness and safety of traffic on the highway says Transport Minister Martin Kupka.
The test mode to increase the speed limit to 150 km/h is introduced only on the D3 motorway between the exits 84 Plana nad Luznici after the exit 131 Usilne. The other sections of the motorways apply a limit of 130 km/h.
Higher speed will only be allowed at 47 kilometers of the D3 motorway only if the weather visibility and traffic density allow it. If the conditions deteriorate the system will automatically reduce the system to ensure the safety of all road users. Speed limits are updated in real time according to data from meteorological stations cameras sensors and transport systems. The functioning of the system is supervised by the National Transport Information Center of the Road and Motorway Directorate adds the minister.
The pilot regime will take at least half a year. The Ministry of Transport then decides on the basis of the evaluation of the collected data whether a similar model can expand to other sections of modern motorways. The evaluation will include not only traffic data but also feedback from drivers and police which will supervise road safety in the section.
The possibility to increase speed to 150 km/h on selected sections of motorways was brought by an amendment to the Road Traffic Act which since 2024 modified the point system and increased sanctions for serious traffic offenses.
Example of three traffic signs modes on the selected section of the D3 motorway
Under suitable conditions 150 km/h are valid to reduce the speed to 130 km/h the highway is in general operational modifications (gray marks) in specific situations the speed is reduced to 100 km/h to ensure the operation on the highway.
Questions and Answers (FAQ)
When will I see the 150 km/h brand?
The value of 150 km/h is displayed only when all conditions are met: dry road good visibility low traffic intensity and no emergency events. If the conditions change the system immediately switches to a lower speed limit.
Can I go 150 km/h when the brand shows no speed limit?
No. In the event that the mark does not show a speed limit of 150 km/h but the mark is gray the general regime in operation ie the statutory limit of the maximum speed on the motorway 130 km/h applies. Failure to comply with this rule is an offense and can be sanctioned.
How do I know that the speed has changed?
There are 42 variable traffic signs on the section of the D3 motorway between Plana nad Luznici and Usilny near Ceske Budejovice. The possibility to use higher speed is only if the mark displays the highest permissible speed 150. If there is no numeric figure on the brands the general operation mode applies ie the top speed of 130 km/h. In the third case the brand can display a reduced speed limit to 100 km/h.
What if it rains or is dense traffic?
In the case of rain reduced visibility or occurrence the system will reduce the speed limit to 100 km/h. The aim is to minimize the risk of accidents and ensure traffic flow. Drivers should not only follow variable brands but also adapt their ride to current weather conditions.
How long will the test take?
The pilot mode is scheduled for at least six months. After its completion an evaluation will be carried out to include the analysis of traffic data accidents and operation experience. Based on these results it will be decided whether the regime will be extended to other sections.
Will the higher speed be safe?
Safety is the main priority. Therefore the regime is controlled dynamically and permission of higher speeds is only possible under ideal conditions. The Police of the Czech Republic will be present in the section and will supervise compliance with the rules.
