Berlin's road fatalities continue to trend downward, with only 33 recorded so far this year, lower compared to the previous year's 34. However, there's been a slight uptick in the number of road accidents, with 99,088 registered as of September, up 3,500 from the same period in 2021. Despite this, the number of minor and severe injuries has shown a decrease, with 10,732 and 1,583 respectively, compared to 11,232 and 1,627 in the previous year.
The decrease in road traffic fatalities isn't solely based on luck but rather the result of various safety measures. Berlin has implemented a "Road Safety Programme 2030," aimed at reducing road accidents and fatalities by 2030. The program includes measures focusing on different road users, such as cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers. Cycling safety in particular receives significant attention, with initiatives like changing traffic light circuits and prioritizing cycling safety in the Berlin Cycling Plan. Education programs are also being conducted in schools to sensitize people to road safety, particularly for vulnerable groups like children and senior citizens.
Urban areas, including Berlin, have seen an increase in speed checks and stricter penalties for traffic violations in recent years, a response to the rising number of accidents. Evidence from other regions, like Uganda, shows that stricter speed limits and penalties can result in a decrease in accidents. Uganda's approach includes fines for exceeding speed limits, which likely serves as a deterrent and contributes to the reduction in accidents.
The overall strategy in Berlin centers on comprehensive programs, education, and continuous monitoring to ensure the safety of all road users. The focus on cycling safety, along with measures to reduce speeding, plays a significant role in improving urban road safety. While the number of accidents has slightly increased this year, the decline in fatalities and overall safety improvements demonstrate the effectiveness of the city's approach.
