Cyclist Federation pushes for reduced speed limits in urban areas to improve safety

In the future, motorists may need to allocate a bit more time to drive through cities. This comes as a result of an initiative by the Cyclist Federation, which is gathering signatures for a proposal to lower the speed limit from 50 km/h to 30 km/h in urban areas. The Federation argues that those who walk or cycle are more vulnerable in traffic and thus, motorists need to exercise greater caution.

Currently, municipalities need to apply for permission to lower the speed limit to 30 km/h in urban areas. However, the Cyclist Federation wants 30 km/h to be the new default speed limit, with municipalities needing permission to increase it to 50 km/h. The Federation believes this move will result in fewer serious accidents in the cities.

However, the Council for Safe Traffic argues there is not necessarily a direct correlation between lower speeds in urban areas and fewer accidents. They note that during rush hour, when the majority of accidents occur, the average speed is between 8.3 km/h and 13.1 km/h. While slower speeds may not prevent traffic accidents in cities, it can potentially increase safety on some roads, particularly near schools and roads with high accident rates.

The Federation’s proposal is met with resistance from FDM, a motorists’ interest organization. They contend that slower speeds could have significant socio-economic consequences, as it could slow down traffic overall. However, the Cyclist Federation maintains that safety and human life should be prioritized over time and money. They continue to gather signatures for their proposal, believing it will create safer traffic if the speed in cities is further reduced.