autocesta

Autocesta is a term used in several South Slavic languages to denote a motorway or expressway—a high-capacity, controlled-access road designed for fast vehicular traffic. The word derives from auto (car) and cesta (road).

Characteristics include grade-separated interchanges, access only at designated ramps, absence of at-grade intersections, multiple lanes in each direction, central median, and safety features such as emergency lanes and signage. Traffic signals are generally not present; entry and exit are controlled.

Most autoceste are tolled or funded by public authorities; toll collection can be manual at booths or electronic (e-toll) systems. Speed limits on autoceste vary by country, but are typically among the highest in national networks, commonly around 110–130 km/h.

Autocesta is a common term in Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Serbia, where they form the backbone of national transport networks and connect major cities and cross-border routes. They are integrated into wider European and international road corridors and often form part of the TEN-T network. Maintenance, safety standards, and construction follow national regulations and EU guidelines where applicable.

Due to high capacity and long-distance travel, autoceste influence regional economies by improving connectivity, reducing travel times, and shaping land use along corridors, while environmental and social impacts are addressed through planning, noise barriers, and routing choices.