Navigating Construction Zones Across the Balkans

The Balkans are in the middle of a major infrastructure boom. New highways, tunnel projects, and road upgrades are underway from Croatia to Greece. While this means better roads in the future, right now it means construction zones that can be confusing, poorly marked, and sometimes dangerous.

Common Risks in Construction Zones

• Sudden lane shifts: Lanes may merge or shift without much warning, especially at night
• Reduced speed limits: Fines in construction zones are often doubled. Speed cameras are frequently placed at the entrance
• Uneven road surfaces: Loose gravel, metal plates, and height differences between lanes
• Narrow lanes: Temporary lane markings can be confusing, leaving less room for trucks and wider vehicles
• Worker safety: Construction workers may be present just feet from passing traffic

Major Construction Projects (2025–2027)

Serbia — Morava Corridor: A 112 km expressway under construction between Pojate and Preljina, with frequent detours and single-lane sections.

North Macedonia — A1 Upgrades: Highway widening projects between Skopje and the Greek border, with reduced speed limits.

Albania — A2 Motorway: New highway construction causing major route changes in the Tirana-Elbasan corridor.

Croatia — Pelješac approach roads: Ongoing work connecting the new Pelješac bridge to the motorway network.

Safety Tips for Construction Zones

• Slow down well before entering the zone — speed cameras are often positioned at the start
• Stay in your lane and avoid last-minute merging
• Increase following distance to at least 4 seconds
• Watch for construction vehicles entering and exiting the roadway
• Use RoadRadar for advance warnings about construction zones and speed cameras within them