Bologna has become the first Italian city to impose a 30 km/h speed limit on about 70% of its urban roads, which has sparked widespread discussion. This limit, equivalent to around 18 mph, can frustrate many drivers accustomed to higher speeds.
Mayor Matteo Lepore implemented this reform six months ago, to improve health and road safety. Now, a preliminary assessment of the results can be made.
Historic low in road accidents since 2013
Despite initial doubts – driving at 30 km/h for extended periods can lead to a loss of pedal sensitivity, drowsiness, and nervousness – the numbers don’t lie. In just six months, road accidents have decreased by 11% and injuries by 10%. Even more significant is the reduction in serious accidents, the so-called red code incidents, which have dropped by 38%.
Another notable figure is the decrease in the number of pedestrians involved in road accidents, with a reduction of 27.3%. This indicates that the decision to follow the example of some of Europe’s most advanced cities, such as Zurich, Lille, Valencia, Helsinki, Oslo, Graz, Bilbao, and Grenoble, was a positive one.
According to the International Transport Forum, there is a direct correlation between traffic speed and safety: a 1% increase in average speed leads to a 2% increase in accidents with injuries, a 3% increase in serious accidents, and a 4% increase in fatal accidents.
The mobility assessor expressed confidence and satisfaction with the results achieved so far. However, another six months of analysis and monitoring will be needed to draw a complete and final conclusion. For now, the data shows a clear decrease in injuries and fatalities, indicating that the 30 km/h reform is having a positive impact on road safety.
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