Catalonia Cracks down on Slow-Moving Truck Overtakes Causing highway Delays
Barcelona, Spain – Authorities in Catalonia are taking action to address traffic congestion caused by protracted overtaking maneuvers between trucks on key roadways, specifically sections of the AP-7 highway. A new set of restrictions now prohibits these maneuvers under certain conditions, including periods of fluid traffic and adverse weather.
The issue stems from trucks frequently traveling at their maximum permitted speed of 90 kilometers per hour, frequently enough grouping together and contributing significantly to traffic jams. While overtaking a single truck can be a tense experience for car drivers, witnessing two trucks slowly overtake each other is often perceived as particularly frustrating, creating backups as other vehicles wait to pass. These situations can last “a few minutes,” leading to accumulated delays.
Despite existing regulations prohibiting trucks from driving in the left lane on highways with more than two lanes per direction, violations are common. Recent footage shared by the Instagram account @circuliperladreta showcased three trucks moving slowly side-by-side,”occupying the entire road and causing delays.”
According to the account,such actions are not only a violation of traffic rules but also create “perilous situations” and disrupt traffic flow. Violators face potential penalties under Catalan traffic law.The initiative aims to improve traffic fluidity and reduce the risk of accidents stemming from these slow-moving, extended overtaking maneuvers.
