The Milli Majlis (National Assembly) of Azerbaijan approved significant amendments to the laws "On Road Traffic" and "On Highways" during its plenary session today. The new legislation primarily focuses on increasing the speed limit on toll highways and establishing updated regulations for impound lots and vehicle recovery procedures.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that according to the approved changes, the maximum speed limit for traffic on toll highways has been set at 130 km/h. This adjustment aims to improve the efficiency of the country's modern transport infrastructure and align with international standards for high-speed corridors.
Redefining the concept of highways
The legislation also introduces a refined definition of what constitutes a highway in Azerbaijan. Under the new rules, a highway is defined as a road with a specific traffic regime, marked at its start and end with signs 5.1 and 5.2, respectively. These roads must feature physical separation between opposing traffic lanes and are prohibited from having level crossings with other roads, railways, tram lines, bicycle paths, or pedestrian walkways.
Furthermore, the updated standards mandate that such highways must be equipped with dedicated rest areas and parking lots at intervals not exceeding 50 kilometers to ensure driver safety and comfort. These infrastructure developments are part of Azerbaijan's broader strategy to position itself as a regional logistics hub, connecting major economic zones through high-quality road networks.
New rules for impound lots and payment procedures
The amendments also clarify the rights of drivers regarding vehicle impoundment. When a vehicle is taken to a protected parking lot managed by the relevant executive authority, it must be returned to the owner immediately after the required fees are paid. If a vehicle is detained illegally or suffers material damage due to improper storage, the owner maintains the right to file an administrative or judicial complaint.
The method for calculating storage fees has also been standardized. Fees will now begin to accrue from 00:00 on the day following the vehicle's arrival at the impound lot. Notably, if the administrative proceedings that led to the impoundment are terminated or if a legal appeal is successful, any fees paid by the owner must be fully refunded. The bill was passed following its third reading in the parliament.
