What speed is considered speeding on an elevated road with an 80 km/h limit?
2 Answers
According to the Road Traffic Law: A vehicle exceeding the speed limit by 50% is considered serious speeding. Therefore, with a speed limit of 80 km/h, speeds greater than or equal to 120 km/h are considered serious speeding. The 'Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China' stipulates: Driving medium-sized or larger passenger or cargo vehicles, or vehicles transporting hazardous materials on roads other than highways or urban expressways, or driving other motor vehicles at speeds exceeding the prescribed limit by less than 20%, will result in 3 demerit points. Important notes: 1. If a motor vehicle exceeds the speed limit by less than 10%, a fine of 50 yuan and 3 demerit points will be imposed; 2. Exceeding the speed limit by more than 10% but less than 50% will result in a fine of 200 yuan and 3 demerit points; 3. Exceeding the speed limit by more than 50% but less than 70% will result in a fine of 500 yuan and 6 demerit points; 4. Exceeding the speed limit by more than 70% but less than 100% will result in a fine of 1000 yuan and 6 demerit points, and may also lead to license suspension; 5. Exceeding the speed limit by 100% or more will result in a fine of 2000 yuan and 6 demerit points, and may also lead to license suspension.
As an experienced driver who frequently drives on elevated highways, I believe that any speed exceeding the 80 km/h limit is considered speeding. However, in reality, law enforcement allows a tolerance, typically around a 10% buffer zone. This means driving above 88 km/h may trigger a fine. Why is there this buffer? It’s mainly due to speedometer inaccuracies, road conditions, and humane law enforcement—preventing penalties for minor mistakes. That said, I never drive fast because higher speeds increase braking distance, making it harder to control the car in emergencies. Once, I drove at 85 km/h and regretted it when approaching a curve—the car nearly lost control. I recommend using navigation apps or cruise control settings to set reminders and stay below 80 km/h for safety. Speeding on highways also increases the risk of tire blowouts or accidents. For your own and others' safety, following the rules is the wisest choice. Regularly checking tires and brake systems can also help maintain stable speeds.
