Can I enter the highway before the free period starts?
2 Answers
Highway free periods allow early entry, as the toll-free status is determined by the time when the vehicle exits the highway. Drivers don't need to wait at the toll gate for the free period to begin - just plan your exit time appropriately. If the free period is about to end and you haven't reached your destination, it's recommended to exit at the nearest interchange, obtain a new toll card, and then re-enter the highway. Important highway safety precautions: 1. Maintain adequate following distance, especially behind large vehicles which obstruct visibility - this prevents delayed reaction to sudden emergencies ahead; 2. All occupants must wear seatbelts, including front passenger and rear seat passengers; 3. Pay close attention to all warning signs and informational road signs along the highway.
I specifically researched this before my last long holiday trip, after all, who doesn't want to save some toll fees? The free period is determined by the time your vehicle exits the highway, so entering 7-8 hours early is completely fine. But a word of caution: never rush to the toll gate right at the start of the free period - I've seen nightmarish 2-hour traffic jams. For particularly long journeys, I recommend departing half a day early, resting at service areas when approaching the free period, then exiting the highway once it's free - this avoids both traffic and tolls. However, entering too early (over 12 hours) might incur minimum base tolls depending on provincial regulations.
