From 1 August, extended temporary prohibition of overtaking for lorries on the A1 motorway and the H4 expressway

From August 1, 2026, longer time periods of temporary prohibition on overtaking will apply to heavy goods vehicles on sections of motorway A1 and expressway H4. The new regulation extends the hours during which such overtaking is prohibited, aiming to improve traffic flow and reduce disruptions. The change affects the motorway A1, running from Šentilj to Koper, and the expressway H4, stretching from Razdrto to Vrtojba. Previously, the restriction was in place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., but it will now be enforced daily from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. This extended period is intended to address congestion during peak morning and afternoon travel times, as well as during periods of increased traffic load. The measure is part of broader efforts to enhance road safety and promote more uniform driving conditions. The initiative was developed by DARS, Slovenia’s state road agency, in collaboration with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy. The plan was shaped through consultations with representatives from the Slovenian Economic Chamber, the Crafts and Entrepreneurs' Chamber of Slovenia, and freight transport associations. These groups contributed insights into how the new rule would impact logistics operations and public transportation. The temporary ban on overtaking for heavy goods vehicles, those with a maximum allowed mass exceeding seven and a half tonnes, is indicated by traffic sign number 2230, in accordance with the Regulation on Traffic Signaling and Road Equipment, as well as the Road Traffic Act. Decisions regarding changes to traffic regulations are made by the road manager based on expert traffic safety assessments and in cooperation with relevant national authorities. In preparation for the implementation of the new regulation, DARS plans to install additional signs along affected sections of the motorway and expressway. These signs will clearly mark the extended time frame during which overtaking is prohibited, specifically between 5 a.m. and 8 p.m. Due to the scale of the network and the number of locations requiring signage, installation will take place gradually. However, all necessary signs are expected to be in place before August 1, 2026, when the revised traffic regulation comes into effect. Starting from that date, the police will have the authority to monitor compliance with the new traffic regulation. Any violations will result in penalties according to current legislation. Drivers of heavy goods vehicles are urged to strictly adhere to the new rules, while other road users are encouraged to maintain calm, responsible, and predictable driving behavior. Compliance with traffic regulations is essential for enhancing overall road safety and ensuring smoother, safer traffic flow for all users of the road network.