What is the speed limit on highways in rainy weather?
3 Answers
On rainy days, the speed limit on highways varies depending on road conditions, weather, and other factors. Generally, it should not exceed 60 kilometers per hour or 40 kilometers per hour. When visibility on a rainy highway is less than 200 meters, drivers should turn on fog lights, low beam headlights, clearance lights, and front and rear position lights. The speed should not exceed 60 kilometers per hour, and a distance of more than 100 meters should be maintained from the vehicle in front in the same lane. When visibility on a rainy highway is less than 100 meters, drivers should turn on fog lights, low beam headlights, clearance lights, front and rear position lights, and hazard warning flashers. The speed should not exceed 40 kilometers per hour, and a distance of more than 50 meters should be maintained from the vehicle in front in the same lane. Even if the rain is heavy, drivers should never stop on the emergency lane or the driving lane unless they reach a highway service area.
When the weather turns bad, extra caution is needed with speed on highways. Normally, the speed limit is 120 kilometers per hour, but when it rains, that number drops significantly. Rain makes the road slippery, increases braking distance, and significantly reduces visibility, making high-speed driving much riskier. According to traffic regulations, if visibility drops below 200 meters in rainy conditions, the speed must not exceed 80 km/h; if visibility is under 100 meters, reduce speed to below 60 km/h. Speed limit signs, often displaying 80 or 100, are commonly placed at highway entrances or along the road as reminders—slow down immediately upon seeing them. I recommend not only reducing speed but also turning on front and rear lights, especially fog lights, to ensure others can see you. Maintain a greater following distance in the rain—double the usual safe distance from 50 meters to at least 100 meters to avoid rear-end collisions or skidding. Take turns gently, as hydroplaning is common when encountering standing water. Safety comes first—don’t rush and take risks; driving slower ensures everyone gets home safely.
As a newbie on the highway, rainy days are my most nerve-wracking times. The speed limit is normally 120, but I voluntarily reduce it to around 100 in the rain, and even lower it to 80 when heavy rain comes. Lacking experience, I'm afraid of skidding accidents, so before every trip, I check the navigation app for traffic alerts—it pops up suggesting to slow down in rainy conditions. It's okay to drive slower; the key is to turn on the headlights for better visibility and maintain a safe following distance—starting at 150 meters. The intensity of the rain affects speed choices: light drizzle allows maintaining 100, moderate rain calls for 80, and heavy storms require even slower speeds. Practice more to get familiar with the feel, avoid sharp turns in the rain, and drive smoothly with gentle acceleration—peace of mind is what matters most. When encountering temporary speed limit signs, obey and slow down. With proper safety measures in place, it's not as scary.
