Minimum speedChile
Traffic rules
Chile
1. Minimum speed
A minimum speed is the lowest speed that vehicles are required to maintain on a particular road or under specified conditions. Minimum-speed rules are intended to prevent vehicles travelling unnecessarily slowly from disrupting traffic or creating large speed differences between road users.
A minimum speed does not require drivers to maintain that speed when traffic, weather, visibility, road conditions or safety require them to slow down. The way minimum speeds are indicated and enforced varies between countries.
Can Chile establish a minimum speed for a particular road?
Yes. The traffic framework permits the competent road authority or municipality to set minimum speeds for motor vehicles where technical studies establish their need for normal traffic flow. Use the minimum established for the actual road, rather than assuming one figure applies throughout Chile.
Can needlessly slow driving be prohibited in Chile without one national minimum?
Yes. The law prohibits driving a motor vehicle so slowly that it prevents normal and appropriate traffic movement. This is a traffic-flow duty, not a requirement to maintain the maximum-speed limit.
Does a Chilean minimum remove the duty to choose a prudent speed?
No. Drivers must choose a reasonable and prudent speed for the conditions and actual or foreseeable hazards. Reduce speed when necessary for safety. A numerical restriction does not remove the duty to retain control.
