Tempo 30: slower, but safer

A speed limit of 30 km/h in town centres is no longer a rarity in Switzerland. Introducing it in Walchwil in the Engel/Sternen/Oberdorfstrasse/Aesch triangle should at least be worth a discussion.

According to surveys, safety is an important need for many residents of a locality. A speed limit of 30 km/h in town centres has been shown to increase the safety of all road users, be they children, senior citizens, pedestrians or cyclists. Thanks to lower speeds, communication among all road users improves, aggressive behaviour decreases and mutual consideration grows.

The number and severity of traffic accidents in neighbourhoods also decreases at a speed of 30 km/h. Based on extensive accident evaluations, it can be statistically determined that the consequences of injuries worsen disproportionately with increasing speed. At lower speeds, school routes become less dangerous and slower road users feel safer.

Under certain circumstances, a speed limit of 30 kph may even create space for playing and social activities. Drivers also lose little time, but have a better view of the traffic situation. Meanwhile, residents living in a 30 km/h zone enjoy more peace and quiet and a better quality of life.

The legal basis for 30 km/h, i.e. for a deviation from the general speed limit, is Art. 108 SSV (Signalling Ordinance) of 1979. Paragraph 1 of the article states that the speed limit may be restricted in particular to avoid or reduce particular hazards, to reduce excessive pollution and to improve traffic flow.