Preventing a third of serious accidents: Advisory center advocates more 30 km/h zones in the city

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According to the BFU safety barometer published on Tuesday, the traffic accident statistics for the past year are worrying. In 2022, 241 people lost their lives on Swiss roads. That is one fifth more than last year and more than in seven years, according to the BFU. The number of seriously injured rose by approximately 70 to 4,000 compared to last year.

Paradigm shift in traffic planning

The BFU sees a great need for action, especially in built-up areas. Almost every second serious accident there affects pedestrians and cyclists. One reason for this is the impact speeds. With the introduction of 30 km/h, at least one third of the serious accidents in built-up areas on 50 km/h routes could be prevented.

In this respect, a paradigm shift in traffic planning is needed. Tempo 30 should not only apply to neighborhood streets, but wherever road safety requires it, according to the advice center. For example, main traffic axes should also be included, which will continue to have priority.

More road safety in urban areas

In addition, driver assistance systems, such as emergency braking assistants, can contribute to greater safety in urban areas. An easily understandable road infrastructure that forgives mistakes also benefits all road users. The BFU also sees potential for improvement in wearing a seatbelt on the back seat of a car and wearing a helmet on a bicycle and slow e-bike.

In addition to infrastructural measures and awareness-raising among road users, the BFU believes that political will is particularly needed to give road safety more weight again.

(SDA)

Source:Blick