How much can you exceed the speed limit on the highway?
3 Answers
Highway speeding is not allowed, and motor vehicles must not exceed the speed limit. Below are the specific details regarding speeding violations: Exceeding 20%: Driving medium-sized or larger passenger vehicles, school buses, or hazardous material transport vehicles on highways or urban expressways at speeds exceeding 20% above the posted limit, or driving such vehicles on other roads at speeds exceeding 50% above the posted limit, as well as driving other motor vehicles at speeds exceeding 50% above the posted limit; results in a 12-point penalty. Not exceeding 20%: Driving medium-sized or larger passenger vehicles, school buses, or hazardous material transport vehicles on highways or urban expressways at speeds exceeding but not reaching 20% above the posted limit; or driving such vehicles on other roads or driving other motor vehicles at speeds exceeding 20% but not reaching 50% above the posted limit; results in a 6-point penalty.
I often get asked by car owner friends about how much they can exceed the speed limit on highways to stay safe. Honestly, speeding is never allowed under traffic regulations, and any behavior exceeding the speed limit may result in fines. Highway speed limits are designed based on road safety conditions—for example, speed limits are lower on curves or during rain to prevent accidents. Data shows that exceeding the speed limit by just 10% can significantly increase the risk of accidents. Police typically have a tolerance range of 10 km/h when enforcing speed limits, but this is just an informal practice and shouldn’t be treated as a free pass. Safe driving is more important—using cruise control can help you easily maintain the speed limit, while regularly checking your lights and tires ensures your vehicle is in good condition. Reducing speeding also saves fuel and extends your car’s lifespan. Remember, arriving home safely is the ultimate goal—don’t risk it just to save time.
I often encounter speeding issues when driving myself. Occasionally going 130 when the limit is 120 might seem fine, but don’t think it’s legal. The law has zero tolerance for speeding, and whether police pull you over depends on their mood. Speeding within 10% might be overlooked, but anything beyond that will get you in trouble. Once, I was fined for going 15 km over and it even affected my insurance. From a safety perspective, speeding reduces reaction time; if the car ahead suddenly brakes on the highway, your stopping distance increases several times. I recommend installing a speed alert app that beeps as a warning. Also, plan your route before driving to avoid impatient overtaking. During holidays, there’s more highway surveillance, so sticking to the speed limit saves hassle. Controlling your speed also reduces wear on car parts, like tires and engine load.
