Poland will test an updated road sign D-51a, which marks the section of automatic average speed control. It will additionally specify the exact speed limit. The country previously introduced new road signs, some of which pertain to highways. This was reported by InPoland citing the Polish Ministry of Infrastructure.
How the D-51a Road Sign Will Change in Poland
Currently, D-51a signals to the driver the beginning of the section where the system automatically monitors the average speed of the vehicle between entry and exit points.
In the experimental version, an image of sign B-33 with a specific numerical speed limit will appear in the lower left part of the blue sign. The pilot project will cover Polish highways and express roads.
The initiative was supported by the National Road Safety Council of Poland on September 11. Before mass implementation, specialists want to determine how the additional information affects motorists' behavior.
In Poland, not only sectional control systems monitor compliance with speed limits. In 2025, automatic enforcement cameras recorded tens of thousands of violations by vehicles with Ukrainian license plates, although only 3% of Ukrainian drivers received fines.
Why Poland Is Testing a New Speed Control Sign
The Ministry of Infrastructure explains that drivers have repeatedly asked for the allowed speed to be clearly indicated next to sign D-51a. Some motorists are unsure about the speed they can travel in controlled sections.
«Drivers who travel on highways and express roads often do not know what speed is allowed in sections with D-51a,» explained Deputy Minister of Infrastructure Stanisław Bukowiec.
Uncertainty, according to him, leads to abrupt braking or driving significantly slower or faster than the established limit, which can create dangerous situations.
During the experiment, researchers will compare the speed of vehicles, the frequency of sudden braking, the number of violations, and accidents before and after the installation of the updated signs. The road administration, police, transport inspection, and relevant scientific institutions will be involved in the study.
Let's recall that starting in 2026, Poland will also toughen penalties for traffic rule violations, including changing the points penalty system.