Amsterdam to make 30 kph on most roads to boost safety

A temporary 30 kph zone to protect migrating toads. Photo: Depositphotos.com
A temporary 30 kph zone to protect migrating toads. Photo: Depositphotos.com

Amsterdam’s traffic chief is planning to make 30 kph the main speed on most roads, Trouw reported at the weekend.

Egbert de Vries discussed the plan with small business associations, the emergency service, public transport companies and taxi firms last week, Trouw said. The plan has not yet been presented to councillors.

The main reasons to reduce the speed on most roads is to increase public safety and cut down on noise. According to traffic safety research group SWOV, someone hit by a car travelling at 50 kph is three times more likely to die than if the car was moving at 30 kph.

SWOV researcher Wendy Weijermars said the lower limit would be particularly beneficial on roads without a separate cycle lane. However, she warned, that the roads themselves will have to be adapted because drivers only tend to keep to a lower limit if it feels more logical with the way the road is organised.

Last year, MPs voted in favour of a motion to make 30 kph the standard speed limit in built-up areas. Groningen is also considering the move.

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