Monday, April 13
Drivers in Berlin should expect many more speed cameras than usual from today for the rest of the week as part of a so-called Blitzermarathon. The increased attention is due to Speedweek, an initiative that aims to reduce speeding and bring attention to the damage it causes.
This week throughout Germany, police officers will have higher presence on roads and intersections that are prone to accidents, as well as outside school paths, hospitals and senior citizens facilities. Mobile flash units will also be installed alongside roads, especially in the east of Berlin.
Already this year, seven people have died in traffic accidents in Berlin. Last year, there were 37 fatalities but 137,373 accidents in total – a number on the rise. Speedweek is coordinated by the European traffic police network Roadpool with the aim to raise awareness of the dangers of excessive speed and reduce the number of serious accidents.
However, many criticise whether or not such action works in the long term, with some experts claiming it only inspires discipline in the short term. Kirstin Zeidler, head of accident research in the General Association of Insurers (GDV), stated, “A speed camera marathon provides a short-term attention for the issue of speed. This is a good thing at first, but it does not have a lasting effect.”
Transport policy spokeswoman for the Green Group, Antje Kapek, seemed to agree, saying, “A speed camera marathon alone does not create long-term security – but it sends an important signal.” She added, “The number of measured speeding violations in Berlin is alarming. As long as the probability of being caught at excessive speed tends to zero, there will unfortunately be more traffic victims.”
Even the Berlin police union GdP have criticised Speedweek. “The speed camera marathon is and remains a media-effective event without sustainable added value.” Their spokesperson added, “We need more intelligent camera technology, direct lines to the fines office and automated processing, as well as finally the holder’s liability.”
Practical solutions were outlined by SPD traffic expert Tino Schopf: more mobile speed cameras and more concern over fines, with many offenders getting away without a fine. “For this, the staff must be kept available accordingly.”
