Highway vs. Motorway: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
A highway is a main road, often connecting cities and towns, while a motorway is a high-speed road with limited access, specifically for motorized vehicles.
Key Differences
Highways are major public roads that can range from two-lane rural roads to multi-lane urban expressways, serving various types of vehicles and purposes. Motorways, however, are specifically designed for fast motor traffic, typically having multiple lanes and no intersections or direct access to properties.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 01, 2023
Highways often have traffic signals, intersections, and access to adjacent properties, making them versatile in function. In contrast, motorways are characterized by their limited access, with entry and exit only through designated ramps, promoting higher speeds and efficient long-distance travel.
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Dec 01, 2023
While highways can be found in urban, suburban, and rural areas, accommodating different speeds and traffic volumes, motorways are primarily found outside urban areas and are designed for continuous, high-speed travel without interruptions like traffic lights or pedestrian crossings.
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Dec 01, 2023
In terms of signage, highways may have a variety of signs indicating local regulations, while motorways have specific signage designed for high-speed travel, emphasizing exits, distances, and safety warnings.
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Dec 01, 2023
The term "highway" is more generic and can refer to almost any major public road, whereas "motorway" is a specific type of highway designed for high-speed, long-distance motor vehicle travel, often with controlled access and no cross traffic.
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Dec 01, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Accessibility
Open to various vehicles, with direct property access
Limited access, only via ramps, mainly for motor vehicles
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Dec 01, 2023
Design
Varies from two-lane roads to multi-lane expressways
Multi-lane, designed for high-speed travel
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Dec 01, 2023
Traffic Control
May have traffic signals, intersections
Free of intersections, traffic signals
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Dec 01, 2023
Usage
General-purpose road for diverse travel needs
Designed for long-distance, high-speed travel
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Dec 01, 2023
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Highway and Motorway Definitions
Highway
A main public road, especially one connecting major towns or cities.
The new highway reduced the travel time between the two cities.
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Dec 01, 2023
Motorway
A road reserved for the use of motor vehicles.
Cyclists and pedestrians are prohibited on the motorway.
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Dec 01, 2023
Highway
A road with more than one lane in each direction, often with traffic signals.
The highway through the town was expanded to reduce congestion.
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Dec 01, 2023
Motorway
A dual carriageway road designed for fast motor traffic.
The motorway connecting the cities is a major commercial artery.
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Dec 01, 2023
Highway
Any public road or path.
The old highway is now a popular route for cyclists.
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Dec 01, 2023
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Motorway
A high-speed, limited-access road, usually without crossings or traffic lights.
The new motorway has significantly cut down travel times.
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Dec 01, 2023
Highway
A key route in a transportation network.
The coastal highway offers breathtaking views.
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Dec 01, 2023
Motorway
A multi-lane road with controlled entries and exits.
The motorway’s efficient design minimizes the chances of traffic jams.
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Dec 01, 2023
Highway
A major road for any form of vehicle travel.
Heavy trucks frequently use that highway for transportation.
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Dec 01, 2023
Motorway
A major road for long-distance and high-speed travel.
The motorway system in the country is well-maintained for seamless travel.
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Dec 01, 2023
Highway
(historical) A road that is higher than the surrounding land and has drainage ditches at the sides
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Oct 19, 2023
Motorway
(In Europe, New Zealand and parts of Australia) A highway with grade-separated crossings (rather than level crossings) and designed (and only permitted) for high-speed motor-traffic (in Europe motor vehicles with a higher speed limit than 40 km/h) running in two directions on one separate carriageway each
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Oct 19, 2023
Highway
A main public road, especially a multi-lane, high-speed thoroughfare.
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Oct 19, 2023
Motorway
(Chiefly in the U.S.) A racetrack venue designated especially for the sport of auto racing.
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Oct 19, 2023
Highway
(figurative) A way; a path that leads to a certain destiny
You're on a highway to greatness.
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Oct 19, 2023
Highway
A road or way open to the use of the public, especially a paved main road or thoroughfare between towns; in the latter sense it contrasts with local street; as, on the highways and byways.
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Oct 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Do highways have speed limits?
Yes, highways have varying speed limits depending on their location and design.
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Dec 01, 2023
Are highways always multi-lane?
Not always; they can range from single to multiple lanes.
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Dec 01, 2023
What's the difference between a highway and a street?
Highways are major roads for travel between areas, while streets are local roads within areas.
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Dec 01, 2023
What are the common features of a highway?
Multiple lanes, high speed limits, and various types of vehicles.
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Dec 01, 2023
Can bicycles use highways?
It depends on local laws; some highways permit bicycles, others do not.
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Dec 01, 2023
Do motorways have specific rules for heavy vehicles?
Yes, heavy vehicles often have specific speed limits and lane restrictions on motorways.
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Dec 01, 2023
Can you park on the shoulder of a motorway?
Parking on the shoulder of a motorway is typically prohibited, except in emergencies.
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Dec 01, 2023
What is a highway?
A highway is a major public road, often connecting cities and towns.
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Dec 01, 2023
What is the minimum driving age to use motorways?
The minimum driving age to use motorways varies by country but is typically 18 or older.
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Dec 01, 2023
What's the difference between a motorway and a dual carriageway?
A motorway has more stringent design and access criteria, while a dual carriageway may have some intersections and lower speed limits.
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Dec 01, 2023
Can bicycles be used on motorways?
No, motorways are strictly for motorized vehicles.
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Dec 01, 2023
Are motorways lit at night?
Many motorways are equipped with lighting for night driving, but not all.
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Dec 01, 2023
Can pedestrians use highways?
Generally, pedestrians are not allowed on highways due to safety concerns.
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Dec 01, 2023
What are the distinctive characteristics of motorways?
Limited access, typically with on and off ramps, and higher speed limits.
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Dec 01, 2023
Why are motorways often safer than regular highways?
Motorways have controlled access and fewer points of conflict, reducing the risk of accidents.
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Dec 01, 2023
Are motorways the safest type of road?
Motorways are generally safer than regular highways due to controlled access and higher safety standards.
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Dec 01, 2023
Are motorways the fastest way to travel long distances?
Yes, motorways are designed for high-speed travel and are often the quickest route between cities.
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Dec 01, 2023
Do motorways have tolls?
Some motorways have tolls, while others are toll-free, depending on the country and region.
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Dec 01, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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