At a time of tight public resources, the European Eunion Road Federation (ERF) is adamant that road restraint systems can represent a cheap and effective solutions for reducing the impacts of accidents on Europe’s roads. Actual case studies and statistical data gathered from different countries (Belgium, France and Germany) suggest that the presence of a road barrier can contribute to an impressive reduction in the severity and costs of accidents. In addition, the policy paper aims to highlight future challenges for the effective deployment of road restraint systems on Europe’s roads. Amongst others, the policy paper highlights the need to: - Gradually replace old prescriptive systems that are not tested according to the EN 1317; Examine the large discrepancies in minimum legal containment levels for motorways in the EU Member States; Ensure higher safety levels for motorcyclists by deploying systems based on the Technical Specification 1317-8; Act on the rural roads where 56% of Europe’s fatalities occur and where the deployment of safety barriers would greatly enhance safety. (Author/publisher)
Abstract