Can a slow car use the motorway?

A car is not excluded from a motorway simply because it is moving slowly at a particular moment. It must be an allowed vehicle category, meet applicable technical requirements and comply with Article 175 and signs for the section.

Technical suitability matters more than momentary speed

Article 175 does not impose a general ban on a passenger car travelling slowly because of traffic, weather or caution. The Code and regulations instead set vehicle categories and technical requirements, including minimum-speed capability for certain vehicles. Distinguish a vehicle's maximum design speed from the speed the driver chooses at a particular moment.

Check the registration certificate, vehicle category, approval and condition. A car with a fault, damaged brakes or an inability to travel safely does not become suitable merely because it is registered as a passenger car. If the vehicle has a technical limit or special configuration, confirm the applicable rule before entering.

Adapt your driving and follow signs

An eligible vehicle must still be driven at a speed suited to traffic and conditions, without creating danger. If a fault develops during a trip, use the emergency lane only as permitted and seek assistance; do not continue at an unsafe speed just to reach an exit. Follow any minimum-speed signs or other restrictions on that section.

For example, a roadworthy car moving slowly because of heavy rain differs from one that cannot exceed that speed because of a mechanical fault or design. In the second case, check whether it is eligible and safe to drive. Quiz Patente Ufficiale lets you practise exam quizzes and review theory mistakes, but the vehicle's suitability depends on its documents and actual condition.

With Quiz Patente Ufficiale you can review exam quizzes and mistakes on traffic rules; check a vehicle's condition directly.