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MotorwaySweden

Learn traffic rules with clear explanations and visual examples in our illustrated book, designed to make studying simple and engaging.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Sweden

2. Motorway

A motorway is a road specially designed and signposted for motor traffic. Motorways normally have separate carriageways for opposing traffic, controlled access through designated entrances and exits, no direct access to neighbouring properties, and no level crossings with other roads, railways or paths.

Special traffic rules apply on motorways. The permitted road users, speed limits, lane rules, tolls and emergency procedures vary between countries, so drivers must follow the local traffic signs and regulations.

Western approach to the Kronetorp interchange on routes E6, E20 and E22. (Malmö, Sweden)
Wikimedia.org • Bahnfrend • CC BY-SA
How can you recognise a motorway?

A motorway is normally identified by a special motorway sign at its entrance. It commonly has separate carriageways, controlled entrances and exits, and no ordinary intersections or direct access to neighbouring properties.

Who may use a motorway?

Motorways are primarily intended for motor vehicles capable of travelling safely at motorway speeds. Pedestrians, cyclists, animals and certain slow vehicles are generally prohibited, but the exact access requirements differ between countries.

What is the speed limit on a motorway?

There is no universal motorway speed limit. The applicable limit depends on the country, road section, vehicle category and driving conditions. Posted or variable speed-limit signs may replace the general national limit.

How should you enter a motorway?

Use the entrance or acceleration lane to observe motorway traffic and adjust your speed where possible. Enter only when there is a safe gap and follow the local priority and merging rules.

How should you leave a motorway?

Move into the correct lane in good time and signal when required. Enter the exit or deceleration lane before reducing your speed, unless traffic, signs or road conditions require you to slow down earlier.

Which lane should you use on a motorway?

Follow the local keep-left or keep-right rule and any lane-direction signs. Lanes closer to the centre of the motorway are commonly used for overtaking, but lane-use rules differ between countries and vehicle categories.

Can you stop on a motorway?

Voluntary stopping and parking are normally permitted only in designated parking or service areas. Drivers may still have to stop because of congestion, an emergency or another unavoidable situation.

Can you reverse or make a U-turn on a motorway?

Reversing, making a U-turn and driving against the direction of traffic are generally prohibited. If you miss an exit, continue to the next suitable exit.

What should you do if your vehicle breaks down?

Move the vehicle out of the traffic lanes when this can be done safely, activate the hazard warning lights and follow the local breakdown procedures. Leave the vehicle safely, keep away from moving traffic and use a warning triangle or safety vest where required by local law.

What is the difference between a motorway and an expressway?

A motorway normally has the highest level of access control and is governed by specific motorway rules. An expressway may have similar characteristics but may permit different road users or contain lower-standard junctions. The legal distinction varies between countries.

1 Sweden 2 Motorway 3 Residential area 4 Built-up area 5 Speed limit 6 Bike path 7 Shared-use path 8 Toll road 9 Quay 10 Slope 11 Bus stop 12 Stop sign 13 Give way 14 Roundabout 15 Pedestrian crossing 16 Railway crossing 17 Crossing animals 18 Roadworks 19 Height limit 20 Selective barriers 21 Traffic lights 22 Pedestrian lights 23 Traffic mirror 24 Cycling route 25 Parking 26 No parking 27 No stopping 28 Reversing 29 Licence plate 30 Charging station 31 Dangers 32 Bus 33 Police 34 Ambulance 35 European emission standard 36 Pothole 37 Path 38 Particulates 39 Air pollution 40 Rush hour 41 Road code 42 2+1 Road 43 2-1 Road 44 Street gutter 45 Cargo bike 46 Forestry vehicle 47 Construction vehicle 48 Semi-trailer truck 49 Trolleybus 50 Speed pedelec 51 Delivery vehicle 52 Idling 53 Tow truck 54 Four-wheel drive 55 Bicycle 56 Motorcycle equipment 57 Rail track 58 Caravan 59 Trailer 60 Tow hitch 61 Fire truck 62 Siren 63 Convoy 64 Emergency vehicle lighting 65 Agricultural machinery 66 Electric bicycle 67 Electric vehicle 68 Pedelec 69 Quadricycle 70 Microcar 71 All-terrain vehicle 72 Van 73 Recreational vehicle 74 Scooter 75 Trikke 76 Personal mobility device 77 Skateboard 78 Segway 79 Kick scooter 80 Roller skates 81 Mailman 82 Hitchhiker 83 Toddler 84 Child 85 Disability 86 Motorail 87 km/h 88 mph 89 Speedometer 90 Ride height 91 Dirt road 92 Driving 93 Start-stop system 94 Manual transmission 95 Automatic transmission 96 Throttle 97 Tachometer 98 Steering wheel 99 Power steering 100 Visual scanning ...