In recent days, four new measures, including the end of mandatory inspections for motorcycles, have been approved in the Portuguese Parliament.
The new rules aim to increase road safety and improve mobility conditions. They are:
- the end of mandatory inspections for motorcycles
- the creation of a separate class at toll booths
- the authorisation of riding in bus lanes
- the elimination of non-slip materials on the roads
Mandatory inspections
One of the main changes is the annulling of the mandatory periodic inspections for motorcycles, tricycles and quadricycles with an engine capacity of over 125 cm3. According to the Automóvel Club de Portugal (ACP), the legislation that provided for these inspections had been in force since 2012, but was never regulated. Therefore, with the new parliamentary decision, the measure is definitively removed from the legal framework.
Reducing toll costs
Another relevant change concerns the payment of tolls. From now on, motorcyclists will benefit from a new tariff class, ensuring that the amount paid does not exceed 50% of the rate applied to Class 1 light vehicles. This measure, also supported by the ACP, comes in response to long-standing requests from the motorcycling community, which called for a fairer regime for this type of vehicle.
Circulation in bus lanes
Motorcyclists will also be allowed to use bus lanes. Until now, this decision was made by local authorities, resulting in differences in the application of the rule depending on the location. With the new legislation, permission will be uniform nationwide, with the aim of improving traffic flow and providing a safer alternative for motorcyclists in cities.
Measures for greater road safety
In terms of road safety, the elimination of non-slip materials in expansion joints and the installation of speed bumps on potentially dangerous bends were approved. This measure aims to mitigate accident situations, particularly among two-wheel drivers, who are more vulnerable to slippery surfaces.
The new rules are part of a broader strategy to encourage sustainable mobility in Portugal. In recent years, the government has adopted several measures in this regard, such as deducting VAT on the purchase of bicycles and providing financial support for the purchase of electric vehicles. These initiatives, together with the new provisions for motorcyclists, aim to create a fairer and safer road environment for all users.
Source https://postal.pt/ - Photo courtesy of Depositphotos.com
