The Ministry of Transport and Communications (MTC) emphasized that as of July 18, 2022, the new speed limits for streets, alleys, and avenues in urban areas, as well as for highways passing through populated centers across the country, are in effect.
In a statement, the MTC detailed that according to the National Traffic Regulations, updated with Supreme Decree 025-2021-MTC approved in July 2021, the speed limit should not exceed 30 km/h (previously 40 km/h) on streets and alleys. The same applies to avenues, where the speed limit should not exceed 50 km/h (previously 60 km/h).
Speed limits have also been modified on highways passing through populated centers or areas with partially scattered or continuous housing, school zones, or hospitals. The speed limit in commercial areas will be 30 km/h, in residential areas it will be 50 km/h, and in school zones/hospitals it will be 30 km/h.
Exceeding the maximum speed limit will result in progressive penalties. Exceeding the limit by up to 10 km/h will result in a penalty of 18% of a Tax Unit (UIT) and 50 negative points on the driver's record. Exceeding the limit by 10 km/h to 30 km/h will result in a penalty equivalent to 24% of a UIT and an accumulation of 60 points against the driver's record.
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Exceeding the maximum limit by more than 30 km/h will result in a fine equivalent to 50% of a UIT and an addition of 70 negative points in the driver's record. It should be noted that one Tax Unit (UIT) is equivalent to S/4,600.
The MTC emphasized that in Peru, according to information from the National Road Safety Observatory (www.onsv.gob.pe), speeding accidents accounted for 30.5% of total traffic accidents between 2010 and 2021. Specifically, in 2021, deaths of vulnerable road users (pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, etc.) accounted for 62.2% of all deaths.
High speed is not only associated with a higher likelihood of traffic accidents but also directly influences their severity, increasing the probability of injuries and death.
According to the aforementioned Supreme Decree, competent entities such as provincial and district municipalities had one year to adjust their signage. The MTC urged those who have not yet done so to comply with the implementation of appropriate signage. It also recommends the improvement of roads to ensure safe speeds and the implementation of electronic enforcement.