How is the road network in the Netherlands structured?

Answer

The Dutch road network is structured according to the principle of functional network construction. This implies that, first of all, a network distinguishes between a residential function (intended for residence without travelling purposes), and a traffic function (intended for traffic flow). A further distinction is made between the traffic functions of flow and exchange. In the case of flowing traffic, traffic does not interact with the environment; conversely, in the case of exchange there is interaction with the environment and abrupt manoeuvres are possible. Flowing and exchanging do not go together safely. The Sustainable Safety principles require the two functions to be kept strictly separate (mono-functionality of a road). On roads in a residential area, there are only exchanges; on roads with a traffic function, traffic flows on the road sections, and there is exchange at intersections

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60 km/uur-weg buiten de bebouwde kom
Part of fact sheet

Principles for a safe road network

The construction of the road network and road design greatly affect road safety: firstly, because they make certain conflicts impossible or unlikely Meer

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