Speed Limits and Control
- 1/29If you are driving in a built-up area without signs
This standard limit applies to built-up areas where pedestrian and vehicle interaction is frequent. It can be lowered based on school zones or narrow roads.
If you drive on a rural road with no speed signs
Rural roads often allow higher speeds than cities, but drivers must watch for local speed restriction signs.
When motorway conditions are ideal in summer
Greece permits 110 km/h on most motorways, but this can be reduced during winter months due to road safety concerns.
If you drive on a motorway in winter (Oct to Mar)
Snow, fog, and ice increase accident risk, so speed limits are lowered to give drivers more time to react and stop safely.
When entering a residential neighborhood
Slower speeds protect children, seniors, and cyclists who frequently use these areas. Speed bumps and signs often reinforce the limit.
If you enter a construction zone with no visible signs
Even in the absence of posted limits, drivers must adjust speed based on visibility, traffic, or road surface.
When heavy snow covers a rural 80 km/h road
Legal responsibility lies with the driver to maintain a safe speed during fog, heavy rain, or dense traffic.
When driving near schools during active hours
During school hours, these zones prioritize child safety and may have flashing lights or signs to enforce the limit.
If a digital sign shows 80 km/h due to fog
Variable message signs adapt limits in real time for weather, roadwork, or congestion. These must be followed immediately.
When visibility drops on a rural road
When conditions reduce visibility, drivers must slow down even below the posted limit until it’s safe to continue.
If multiple speed signs appear close together
Always obey the latest speed sign. Changes may apply suddenly due to construction or hazards.
When towing a trailer on the motorway
Trailer towing reduces braking efficiency and turning ability. That’s why lower speed is legally enforced.
If you overtake on a 100 km/h road
Drivers cannot exceed the speed limit to pass another vehicle. Safe overtaking must happen within legal limits.
When approaching speed bumps
Speed bumps, narrowings, and curves are built into roads to naturally slow down traffic.
If you are in a wild animal zone
Signs alert drivers to animal presence, urging caution. Hitting wildlife can cause serious harm and loss of control.
When road conditions become unsafe
Sudden braking may lock tires or cause a skid, especially in wet or icy conditions. Controlled braking is safer.
If your vehicle speeds downhill unintentionally
Disabling cruise control in poor grip conditions allows better manual speed adjustment and traction control.
If roads are slippery or icy
Excessively slow drivers may be fined if they block traffic unnecessarily, especially on highways.
If you are driving 40 km/h in a 60 km/h zone safely
Authorities often allow a minor tolerance, but consistent or large over-speeding leads to penalties.
If you are slightly over the limit
In most cities, tram speeds match road traffic to ensure pedestrian and vehicle safety.
When driving in areas with tram traffic
During festivals, emergencies, or public gatherings, temporary signs reduce speed to protect people.
Spedlimit near a stadium during an event
These light vehicles must follow their own speed restrictions to ensure safety for riders and others.
If riding an e-scooter on public roads
Always follow the posted sign over the general area rule. Ignoring it can lead to penalties.
If a road sign contradicts default rules
Heavy vehicles may damage weak roads, especially in rural or agricultural zones. Load-based limits prevent this.
If driving on a forest road during spring thaw
Gross speeding can result in harsh fines, license suspension, and sometimes criminal charges.
If speed exceeds the limit by over 40 km/h
Wealthier individuals pay more for serious infractions under the "day fine" system, ensuring fairness.
If you caught exceed the legal speed limit
Police may revoke a license on the spot for dangerous speed or repeated offenses.
When speeding far above the limit
These limits, even if short-term, must be followed strictly and are fully enforceable by law.
If a temporary roadwork sign shows a limit
Ignoring these signs endangers workers and drivers alike. Repeat offenses may lead to suspension or seizure.