In December 2023, the speed limits placed on 80% of the roads in Amsterdam will be reduced significantly from 50 to 30km per hour.
Several major cities in the Netherlands have rallied against the high number of road fatalities caused each year.
Currently, there are over 800 accidents that occur on Dutch roads. By reducing speed limits, it’s hoped that the number of road casualties will be reduced and the streets will become a safer place for pedestrians and cyclists, AD reports.
Don’t relax just yet, though! The biggest pests — buses and trams, will still have a maximum speed of 50km per hour.
Taking action
Former Alderman Egbert de Vries revealed that most road accidents happen on roads where the speed limit is 50km per hour.
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As a result, Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam and Utrecht sent out an urgent letter to the Dutch cabinet about the hazardous roads.
A year later, action is finally being taken, and we couldn’t be more pleased!
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The lower speed limits should reduce the braking distance of cars from 27.7 metres to 13.3 metres, limiting the impact of accidents and stopping drivers from using the road like an F1 racing track.
Along with the new speed limit, traffic lights, lines, and signs will be adjusted to sustain the safety of the roads.
What do you think about the new speed limits? Tell us in the comments below.
