Limites de vitesse et contrôle
- 1/20If driving on urban roads
You must not exceed 50 km/h: Trucks in built-up areas must obey the standard urban limit of 50 km/h. This protects pedestrians, cyclists, and accommodates frequent stops and turns.
When driving on rural roads
You must not exceed 80 km/h: Outside urban zones, the general speed limit for trucks under 12 tonnes is 80 km/h, unless signage indicates otherwise.
If driving on two-lane roads
You must not exceed 80 km/h: Trucks on undivided two-lane highways must follow the 80 km/h limit to ensure safety where overtaking is limited and visibility is reduced.
When driving on expressways
You must not exceed 90 km/h: On dual carriageways and expressways (routes pour automobiles), trucks are limited to 90 km/h to maintain safe flow and reduce braking distance.
If driving on motorways
You must not exceed 90 km/h: On autoroutes, the maximum speed for trucks over 3.5 tonnes is 90 km/h, even if the general limit is higher for other vehicles.
When visibility is below 50 meters
You must reduce speed to 50 km/h: In fog, snow, or heavy rain with visibility under 50 meters, all vehicles including trucks must limit speed to 50 km/h regardless of the road type.
If your truck exceeds 12 tonnes
You must follow reduced speed limits: Heavier vehicles over 12 tonnes must observe stricter speed limits, especially on rural and curved roads, for braking and stability control.
When descending steep slopes
You must reduce speed and use engine braking: On steep descents, trucks must lower speed and use retarder or engine brakes to avoid overheating and maintain control.
If carrying hazardous materials
You must follow posted ADR speed limits: Trucks transporting dangerous goods must follow special ADR signage which often imposes lower maximum speeds in tunnels, bridges, or urban areas.
When driving in work zones
You must slow down to the posted temporary limit: Construction zones often have temporary speed reductions. Trucks must strictly follow these signs to protect workers and avoid fines or accidents.
When road signs indicate lower limits
You must obey posted signs even if general limit is higher: Speed limit signs always override general laws. Trucks must reduce speed accordingly to match local safety or environmental needs.
If towing a trailer
You must reduce your speed by 10 km/h: Trucks towing trailers are subject to lower maximum speeds to maintain stability and reduce stopping distance on all types of roads.
When roads are wet
You must adjust speed below the legal maximum: Reduced traction in rain increases braking distance. Lowering speed in wet conditions is mandatory to prevent skidding or hydroplaning.
If driving downhill with heavy load
You must use lower gear and maintain reduced speed: Controlling descent speed prevents brake overheating and maintains safe handling, especially for loaded or articulated trucks.
When entering tunnels
You must reduce speed and increase spacing: Speed in tunnels must be controlled to avoid collisions in confined areas. Maintain lower speed and minimum 50m gap.
If you see electronic variable speed signs
You must comply with displayed digital limits: Electronic signs adjust speed limits based on weather, traffic, or accidents. These limits are legally binding and must be followed.
When approaching pedestrian crossings
You must slow down and prepare to stop: Even on main roads, trucks must reduce speed to ensure they can stop if pedestrians are present, especially near schools and urban crossings.
If the road is icy or snowy
You must drive well below speed limits: In extreme winter conditions, traction is greatly reduced. Trucks must slow down to maintain control and stop safely if needed.
When following another vehicle
You must keep safe distance based on your speed: The two-second rule applies, but trucks may require longer gaps due to mass. Speed must be adjusted to maintain this safety margin.
If approaching a sharp curve
You must slow down to a safe, stable speed: Curves pose rollover risks for high or loaded trucks. Slowing before entering is necessary to avoid losing control or tipping.