There is a traffic sign that has caused doubts among many Portuguese drivers. Despite being present on several roads, not everyone knows exactly what it means, which has led to unexpected fines. Understanding your true objective allows you to avoid unnecessary penalties.
According to Pplware, a website specializing in technology, this signal is associated with an average speed control system. Unlike traditional radars that record speed at a single point, this method calculates the vehicle’s average speed along a given section. To avoid being fined, the driver needs to maintain a constant speed and within the legal limit throughout the journey.
This system was introduced to increase the effectiveness of road inspection, especially in areas where speeding poses a greater danger. However, many motorists are unaware of the meaning of the sign and end up being penalized without realizing the reason. Knowing how it works is essential to avoid fines.
Meaning and how it works
The H42 appears as a blue rectangle, with the inscription “average speed” and the image of two cameras, indicating the beginning of the section subject to control. According to Pplware, the system electronically records the vehicle’s registration number at two different points on the road.
Between these points, the average speed is calculated to check whether it remains within the legal limit. This method prevents drivers from accelerating to quickly pass a speed camera and then slowing down abruptly. The objective is to reduce accidents caused by excessive speed and risky behavior, promoting safer driving along the entire route.
Locations where the system is in operation
Average speed control with the H42 sign is already installed on several roads and motorways, including the EN10, IC1, IC19, A1 and A6. These locations were selected because they have the highest traffic and accident rates.
According to the same source, the installation of these systems is part of a national strategy to reinforce road safety and reduce accidents. The sign serves as a warning for drivers to adjust their speed to the permitted limit, thus avoiding penalties even if the infraction only occurs on part of the section.
Fines and tolerances
The fines imposed can vary between 60 and 2,500 euros, depending on the severity of the infraction. Furthermore, points may be awarded on your driving license or even the right to drive may be temporarily suspended.
There is a technical tolerance margin to compensate for possible errors in equipment: up to 7 km/h for speed limits up to 100 km/h and 7% for higher limits. However, this margin does not allow legal limits to be exceeded. The system applies penalties whenever the average speed exceeds what is permitted, regardless of whether the driver has reduced speed at certain points.
Tips to avoid fines
The best way to avoid penalties is to always keep your speed within the limit throughout the entire controlled section. It’s not enough to just slow down at certain points; the average speed must be within the permitted range.
Navigation applications such as Waze or Google Maps can alert you to these controls, but H42 is the only official sign and must be respected. According to , knowing the sign helps to drive safer and reduces the risk of fines, protecting not only the driver, but all road users.
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