This paper discusses the road safety situation in Israel, and outlines a five-year master plan to reduce road accidents and improve the quality of life. The plan was introduced by Israel's Road Safety Administration in 1990. It included a Government budget for: (1) new road construction; (2) better road maintenance; (3) traffic signals; and (4) the construction of pedestrian bridges and interchanges on inter-urban roads. The following measures have already been implemented: (1) establishment of a special traffic police force, using modern equipment to measure speed and distance; (2) instruction of school children and teachers in road safety, and provision of special children teams at street crossings; (3) additional safety instruction for drivers and pedestrians; (4) duty free import of safety appliances; (5) use of reflecting number plates; and (6) stricter laws for driving licences. Other measures proposed include: (1) the establishment of municipal bodies for urban traffic control and parking violation; (2) recruitment and training of 5000 additional volunteers for education, information and enforcement; and (3) financial support of the National Council for the Prevention of Accidents.
Samenvatting