It is an internationally accepted rule that motorised traffic must drive slowly in residential areas. The dutch government concurs with this rule. Moreover in the netherlands the maximum speed of 50 km/hr was found to be much too high for residential streets within built-up areas. Traffic is too fast in such streets, increasing the lack of safety and deteriorating the quality of life of the residents. Since april 1, 1983 it has been possible in the netherlands to institute a maximum speed of 30 km/hr on certain roads within built-up areas. Since january 1, 1984 the indication of this speed limit by zone boards has also been permitted. This countermeasure is the consequence of the idea that the compulsory 30 km/hr speed limit has a favourable effect on traffic safety. The 30 km/hr speed limit is expected to reduce the number of traffic accidents and also the reduction of collision speed will lead to accidents which cause less severe injuries. The organisation and approach to investigating the efficiency of this countermeasure is discussed.
Abstract