Mopeds, two- or three-wheeled vehicles with low-displacement engines, are a popular option for traveling in urban areas and on short journeys. However, a common question persists among drivers: can mopeds travel on highways? The answer is clear, but many drivers still wonder about the rules that govern the circulation of these vehicles on expressways.
According to the Traffic Code, the use of mopeds on highways is prohibited in Portugal. This measure has to do with the fact that highways are high-speed roads, where vehicles travel at more than 100 km/h. Mopeds, with a maximum cylinder capacity of 50 cm³ and speed limited to 45-50 km/h, cannot keep up with the pace of traffic, which can result in dangerous situations for both moped drivers and other road users.
«The difference in speed between mopeds and other vehicles creates a high risk of accidents», explains the Highway Code, highlighting road safety as the main concern. Furthermore, motorways are designed for vehicles with greater acceleration and stability at high speeds, something that mopeds, with their limited power, cannot offer.
For this reason, mopeds are more suitable for traveling in urban areas or on local roads, where the average speed is lower and traffic conditions are more appropriate. Driving on these types of roads reduces the risk of accidents and allows for safer integration of mopeds into traffic.
Legal requirements for driving mopeds
To drive a moped in Portugal, the driver must meet certain requirements. The Brazilian Traffic Code specifies that, to obtain a moped driver’s license, you must be 16 years of age, with parental authorization, and pass a driving test, which is waived for those who already have a category driver’s license. B or anyone who obtained a moped license before March 30, 1998. In addition, the driver must demonstrate physical and mental fitness, be able to read and write and not be complying with any driving ban.
It is also important to highlight that, for those who have a category B driver’s license, it entitles the driver to ride motorcycles up to , as long as they are over 25 years old, a rule that facilitates the transition to larger engine capacity motorcycles.
Conclusion
The main objective of prohibiting the circulation of mopeds on highways is road safety, as the difference in speeds between mopeds and other vehicles can result in serious accidents. These vehicles are best suited for urban areas and local roads where traffic conditions and average speed are more adaptable to their performance.
For moped drivers, it is essential to respect the rules and ensure that they only travel on the appropriate roads, thus contributing to safer traffic for everyone.
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