Bahnhofstraße near the central bus stop - reduction of the speed limit to 40 km/h
From Friday, 29 May 2015, the speed limit on Bahnhofstraße at the central bus stop will be 40 km/h. The necessary traffic signs will be erected on both sides of the road to ensure visibility for all drivers.
The reason for the deviation from the local speed limit is to increase road safety on this section of road. The analysis of the accidents has shown that the pedestrian fords across the motor vehicle lanes on Bahnhofstraße am Tietz are particularly problematic. These serve as a connection for pedestrians between the stops at Tietz and the other platforms at this central transfer point as well as to the city centre. The main cause identified during the detailed investigation was that pedestrians cross at red lights.
Traffic observations have shown that the large numbers of pedestrians crossing generally show a very high level of acceptance in respecting the signals. However, failure to do so can lead to accidents with serious consequences due to limited visibility, as drivers are unable to react in time. The investigations have also shown that many drivers exceed the previously prescribed speed of 50 km/h.
If local accident investigations have shown that accidents occur regularly at a particular location, it is necessary to check whether these accidents are of a similar nature. If this is the case, traffic regulation measures can often be taken to minimise the danger zone.
In principle, there is a direct correlation between speed and road safety, as the stopping distance is shorter. It is to be expected that a reduction in speed on Bahnhofstrasse can reduce both the number of accidents and the severity of accidents. However, this also essentially depends on the behaviour of all road users.
A speed reduction below 40 km/h is out of the question at the present time, as the green wave on Bahnhofstrasse is to be maintained due to its traffic function, among other reasons.