What is the maximum speed limit on urban roads without speed restrictions?
2 Answers
According to Article 45 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law Implementation Regulations", the speed of motor vehicles on roads without speed limit signs or markings is clearly defined. First, on roads without a central dividing line, the speed limit for urban roads is 30km/h, and for highways is 40km/h. Second, on roads with only one motor vehicle lane in the same direction, the speed limit for urban roads is 50km/h, and for highways is 70km/h. The following are the relevant provisions of the "Road Traffic Safety Law Implementation Regulations": 1. Special circumstance speed limits: Article 46 also specifies safety speeds for five special circumstances, with motor vehicles limited to 30km/h, and tractors, battery-powered vehicles, and wheeled special machinery vehicles limited to 15km/h. 2. Special circumstances: when entering or exiting non-motorized lanes, passing through railway crossings, sharp curves, narrow roads, or narrow bridges; when making U-turns, turning, or descending steep slopes; when visibility is less than 50 meters due to fog, rain, snow, dust, or hail; when driving on icy, snowy, or muddy roads; and when towing a malfunctioning motor vehicle.
I've been driving for over twenty years and have never encountered a truly unlimited speed zone on urban streets. Generally, the default speed limit is 50 kilometers per hour, which is the safety standard set by national law. Driving faster carries significant risks, especially when encountering pedestrians or children suddenly darting out. At 50 km/h, the braking distance can be several meters, and it becomes even harder to stop at higher speeds. Whenever I drive in the city, I habitually maintain a speed of around 45 km/h, finding it both stable and fuel-efficient, while avoiding rear-end collisions or traffic fines. Friends often say driving slower is boring, but I once nearly skidded into an accident on a rainy day—fortunately, my low speed prevented a disaster. Moreover, urban traffic is dense, and driving faster doesn’t necessarily save time. It’s better to stay calm and follow the rules, protecting both myself and others. Safety always comes first, especially for a driver like me who often transports family members.
