From Thursday, Latvia's Roads Set a 90 km/h Winter Speed Limit
From 15 October, a winter speed limit of 90 km/h takes effect on Latvian roads. The only exception is the Riga–Sigulda highway section, where up to 100 km/h is allowed in very good conditions.
Starting Thursday, 15 October, drivers in Latvia will no longer be allowed to exceed 90 kilometres per hour (km/h) on the country's roads, as the winter-season limit comes into force. The announcement was made by Latvijas valsts ceļi (LVC), the state-owned company that manages Latvia's state roads. One exception applies: on the highway section between Riga and Sigulda, drivers may go up to 100 km/h in very good conditions.
The Riga–Sigulda section
On the Vidzeme highway between Riga and Sigulda, traffic is managed with variable-message road signs. In very good driving conditions the maximum speed there will stay at 100 km/h through the winter. If weather and road conditions worsen, the system can lower the permitted speed to 90, 80 or 70 km/h.
LVC notes that in winter, driving and weather conditions can change several times a day, so motorists must watch the variable signs and obey them.
Replacing the signs
The seasonal changes are introduced as the weather turns and winter approaches. Signs regulating speed will be replaced during the day on 15 October. On the Ķekava bypass, the signs are due to be replaced overnight from 15 to 16 October.
Electronic signs carry the same legal force as ordinary ones, and the speed shown on them must not be exceeded. Violations are penalised as set out in law. If a variable-message sign shows no information, the maximum permitted speed outside built-up areas is 90 km/h. Drivers must also choose a speed suited to the weather and the situation on the road.
About LVC
LVC was established in late 2004 and is state-owned. It manages more than 20,000 kilometres of state roads, administers their funding and organises procurement for state needs.
