Spain, pioneer in slowing down to 30 km/h throughout the country

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Created: Friday, 11 June 2021 15:44

     Spain is the first country in the world to implement the 30 km/hspeed limit, throughout the country, on one-way streets (80% of the total). The reform, legislated in November 2020, will come into force on May 11 and aims to ensure safe coexistence between motor vehicles and vulnerable road users (pedestrians, cyclists, etc.).

     30 km/h speed on the streets ensures that you can react if a pedestrian, bicycle or other vehicle appears unexpectedly and, if you cannot do so, reduces the risk of death in the case of a run over by two thirds.

     The new speed limits for cities are intended to calm traffic, reduce noise and pollution, make cities more livable and encourage other forms of mobility, especially walking and cycling.

     This regulatory change responds to a growing demand from Spanish municipalities. Many of them had already decided to become a "#Love30 Cities", as is the case of Madrid, Cuenca, Malaga, Barcelona or Pontevedra, among others. Now it will apply to all cities in Spain.

Fuente: National Department of Traffic in Spain (DGT)