The majority in the country does not care about new speed rules: despite relief at the political level, there are often 30 additional speed zones in the drawers of local municipal authorities. The “Krone” has taken a closer look at the figures…
A turning point in the fight against anger in the environment? Last summer, changes to the local traffic regulations (StVO) made it easier for communities to reduce the speed limit on national and local roads from 50 to 30 km/h.
The change also meant that the responsible authority could handle the installation of radar boxes even faster. The focus was on “areas in special need for protection”. This includes kindergartens and schools, but also hospitals, retirement homes and leisure facilities.
Minimum increase in 30 zones in the country
Although there was great joy last year, relatively little is still happening in terms of implementation. In Upper Austria, for example, only three municipalities used the new instrument against the speedsters. In Lower Austria there is only one (!) municipality, while nine cities and towns have already inquired about possible radar boxes at a higher level.
The statistics are also quite poor in other states. For the VCÖ, rapid improvement is not relevant; every new 30 zone is celebrated as a “success”.
Small improvements are also a success
“At 30 km/h in the area, the risk of fatal injuries to pedestrians in accidents drops by as much as 75 percent. With this measure, children and seniors in particular travel more safely. But it is also a fact: more information is probably needed for the mayors,” explains VCÖ spokesperson Christian Gratzer when asked by “Krone”.
However, at the federal level, it is also important to remember that the country’s mayors also face other problems and that the 30 km/h speed limit in local areas is probably not the highest priority.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
