This study tries to answer the question what the effect would be if the average speed on the roads in The Netherlands would be reduced, in which circumstances such a reduction would be acceptable (and the means to reach this), and which strategy the government would have to follow if it wishes to effectuate such a reduction. Strict preservation of the present-day limits can result in a 5% saving on energy and a decrease of the number of traffic fatalities with about 10%. An `optimal' speed control leads to a decrease in the number of road victims up to tens of percents and a reduction of nitrogen emissions of about one third. The basis for speed reduction seems to be the highest for traffic in residential quarters and in exceptional circumstances such as fog. The law enforcers much appreciate a fraud free system of speed reduction (even without a strong basis among the public).
Samenvatting