Experts for a 30 km/h speed limit

Traffic accidents happen more often in the local area

In Salzburg, most traffic accidents occur in the local area.

(Bild: Christof Birbaumer)

Two thirds of traffic accidents in Salzburg happen in built-up areas. Experts would therefore like to see a 30 km/h speed limit.

The latest amendment to the StVO, which was passed by the National Council on Wednesday, brings with it a significant change for municipalities and cities: the easier implementation of 30 km/h zones. This decision is no coincidence, as over 280 municipalities and cities, supported by organizations such as the VCÖ and the Association of Towns and Cities, have jointly called for this measure.

Why 30 km/h? In the province of Salzburg, two thirds of traffic accidents occur in built-up areas. What is even more alarming is that more than 90 percent of pedestrian accidents happen right there. In 2022, 2058 people were injured and eight lost their lives in traffic accidents in the local area alone. In pedestrian accidents, 39 people were seriously injured and three were fatally injured. Elderly people and children are particularly affected, falling victim to pedestrian accidents in a quarter and a sixth of cases respectively.

The new amendment to the German Road Traffic Regulations paves the way for an easier implementation of 30 km/h, especially in places where there is an increased number of children and elderly people on the road, such as schools, kindergartens, retirement homes, hospitals or leisure facilities. This measure is an important step towards greater safety on Salzburg's roads and protection for those who are most at risk.