Major Overhaul of Highway Code in Hungary Ahead? Summary of Likely Key Changes

  • 24 Feb 2025 5:08 PM
Major Overhaul of Highway Code in Hungary Ahead? Summary of Likely Key Changes
Hungary is considering significant changes to its Highway Code, or Kresz, with proposed updates covering everything from speed limits and bicycle regulations to e-scooters and learner driver training, news site Telex reports.

The draft, developed after a year of consultations involving 100 transport experts and 70 organizations, aims to simplify the current complex rules and align them with modern traffic habits.

Key Changes for Drivers and Pedestrians

Speed limits could rise, with expressways allowing up to 120 km/h (from 110 km/h) and some highway sections increasing to 140 km/h.

Truck and bus speed limits may climb from 80 km/h to 90 km/h. New rules would enforce the “zipper principle” for merging traffic, requiring drivers in open lanes to let vehicles from ending lanes merge.

Additionally, pedestrians would be prohibited from using mobile phones while crossing streets or railway tracks.

In residential areas near schools, special zones with a 30 km/h speed limit would be introduced during school hours. Motorcycles and trams could also benefit from higher speed allowances—up to 70 km/h on dedicated tracks.

Bicycles, E-Scooters, and New Safety Rules

For cyclists, helmet use would become mandatory for those under 14, with new lane-sharing rules introduced for roads. Cyclists could also be allowed to ride side-by-side outside urban areas in groups.

E-scooters capable of speeds up to 25 km/h would be classified as light vehicles, requiring helmets for riders under 14. More powerful scooters would follow moped regulations, including insurance and a minimum riding age of 14.

Learner Drivers and Simulators

Learner drivers may soon have the option of replacing up to six mandatory driving hours with simulator training to reduce costs. The proposal also introduces the possibility of family members helping with practice sessions - if they have at least 10 years of driving experience and no serious traffic violations.

Infrastructure and Signage Updates

New signage may be introduced, including “Kiss and Go” zones for quick drop-offs and symbols indicating elderly pedestrians, large families, or emission-free vehicle routes.

The final version of the Highway Code updates will depend on ongoing governmental discussions, with implementation timelines yet to be determined, te report noted.

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