Hungary’s new Highway Code will shock drivers and transform road safety
The Ministry of Construction and Transport has pledged to introduce a new Highway Code by 31 March 2025, which will be presented by the Hungarian government. For several months, experts from the Ministry and the Hungarian Institute of Transport Science and Logistics, alongside various external specialists, have been collaborating on drafting the legislation. Five dedicated working groups are focused on incorporating the feedback and suggestions received so far into the updated traffic regulations.
According to Vezess.hu, the Ministry’s representatives will periodically brief the press on the planned reforms. So far, they have outlined the key principles of the new Highway Code, proposed updates to the process for obtaining a driving licence, and introduced initiatives aimed at motorcyclists and pedestrians. Recently, they unveiled specific proposals addressing a wide range of everyday concerns for road users, from honking to parking. Dániel Zách, an automotive journalist, told ATV that many of the new traffic rules are already being observed in practice but are not yet enshrined in law. He highlighted the “zipper principle,” which helps maintain smoother traffic flow when the right lane is closed, as an example.
Key changes
Lane and parking changes
The new Highway Code introduces a concept known as the “protection lane”, designed to safeguard pedestrians and cyclists. This new rule allows vehicles to pass in the centre of the lane, rather than staying strictly to the right. Additionally, the term “waiting” has been replaced by “parking”, and changes have been made to the terminology around stopping lanes to prevent misunderstandings. The draft legislation also proposes a new sticker system to indicate the driving abilities of older drivers.
Speed limit changes
There are significant adjustments to speed limits under the new Highway Code. The current motorway limit of 130 km/h will remain, though certain stretches may see this increased to 140 km/h in the future. Outside built-up areas, a new speed limit of 90 km/h is proposed for buses, trucks, and trailers. Another key proposal is the introduction of a mandatory two-second gap between vehicles on motorways, aimed at improving safety.
Changes in signalling and lighting
New rules have been outlined for the use of indicators, requiring drivers to signal at least two seconds before making a manoeuvre. The use of horns will be restricted to accident situations, while emergency whistles will also be permitted to prevent accidents. Additionally, there will be stricter regulations on seatbelt use for children, with greater responsibility placed on drivers. Under the new rules, children under the age of three must be accompanied by an adult when travelling by bus.
When will these changes take effect?
It is expected that the final version of the new Highway Code will take at least another year to be completed. The aim is to have the proposed legislation finalised by the end of March 2025. However, there will be a lengthy transition period before the New Highway Code comes into effect, which is likely to take between six and twelve months. As a result, the earliest penalties under the updated regulations are not expected until late 2025 or early 2026.
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