The Verkeersveiligheidsinstituut (VVI, Road Safety Institute) is mapping roads with an elevated risk of traffic accidents. An analysis of traffic data shows that the Indira Gandhiweg, the Martin Luther Kingweg and the Garnizoenspad, among others, are among the high-risk roads. The Ministry of Openbare Werken en Ruimtelijke Ordening (OWRO, Public Works and Spatial Planning) intends to take targeted measures based on the research results.
According to the VVI, a structural approach is needed to reduce the number of traffic victims and traffic fatalities. The traffic situation is constantly changing due to the growth in the number of vehicles, increasing mobility and changes in the behaviour of road users.
Purcy Landveld, deputy director of Data, Education and Information at the VVI, says that relatively many traffic accidents are recorded on the Indira Gandhiweg, the Martin Luther Kingweg and the Garnizoenspad. These also include serious and fatal collisions.
Using so-called blackspot analyses, the institute examines which intersections and road sections pose the greatest risks. The collected data should help determine the causes of accidents and develop appropriate measures.
Engineering firms investigate high-risk roads
The research results are shared with OWRO, so that risk locations can be addressed in a targeted manner. According to Lucretia Beeldstroo, deputy director of Traffic and Mobility at the ministry, a set of requirements has now been drawn up for this purpose.
Through a tender procedure, engineering firms will be selected to further investigate, among others, the Indira Gandhiweg and the Martin Luther Kingweg.
Cameras will be installed at busy intersections to analyse traffic flows and dangerous manoeuvres. The study will also examine driving speeds, street lighting, visibility, road markings, pedestrian crossings and right-of-way situations.
Beeldstroo indicates that road markings are already being applied and traffic signs installed at various locations. According to her, the ministry is taking measures within the available possibilities to improve road safety.
Cooperation necessary
Landveld stresses that cooperation between ministries and other involved organisations is necessary for a coherent road safety policy.
“That is also the aim of the VVI: bringing together all parties involved, translating traffic data into concrete measures and working jointly towards safer traffic,” Landveld said.
