Keep your feet off the gas-pedal when driving in Slovakia!
An updating of traffic law is in effect in Slovakia starting 1st February 2009.
Most important changes include speed limits, lightening and fines.
Do not speed or fish up your purse!
Speed limit for driving in urban area has been reduced from 60km per hour to only 50km per hour. On the other hand the speed limit on cross-town highway has been increased to 90km per hour. 130km per hour is the highway speed limit outside the urban area and you should not drive less then 80km per hour. Fines for speeding go from 150€ up to 800€ + possible driving restriction of 3 years. Slovak policemen according to the law possess the authority to retain international driving licenses as well.
The good news is that if you do not have enough cash with you, you can work your “sin” off. One hour of community service has the value of 3€.
Should you call the police?
When causing an accident, police assistance and presence is required if:
- A person is hurt or dead
- A damage has been caused on common property
- Dangerous substances are leaking
- One of drivers is intoxicated
- Damage caused on vehicles or belongings transported in the vehicles exceeds costs of 120 000€
Another important change concerns the lightening. As of February 1, drivers are to drive with their headlamps on year round. Winter tires are compulsory when touch of snow, ice or ice-coating is on the roadway.
Cyclists and pedestrians are obliged wearing reflective marks when riding or walking outside the urban area during limited vision weather or time. Cyclists must wear a crash helmet as well.
