VIENNA (PK) – An amendment to road traffic regulations aims to ensure greater traffic safety and quality of life in local areas. The StVO amendment by the ÖVP and the Greens, explained Hermann Veratznik (Greens), would make it easier for communities to introduce speed limits of 30 km/h in front of schools, kindergartens, retirement homes, hospitals and similar facilities. National Council meeting. Transport Minister Leonore Küssler emphasized that the measure should be relevant to increase road safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Municipalities also have the option to monitor speed limits themselves using radar boxes or other automated devices. In order to better regulate the flow on busy streets, it will be possible to avoid the green flashing of traffic lights at certain intersections or entrances in the future. The findings will take effect on July 1, 2024, Gwessler said.
In the National Council, the ÖVP, the Greens and NEOS voted for the amendment. For the SPÖ, the changes went in the right direction, but they feared that the administrative burden for the municipalities would be even greater. The FPÖ saw individual positive points – such as treating emergency vehicles equally with other emergency vehicles – but feared further restrictions on personal movement.
SPÖ: 30 km/h in front of schools and kindergartens, FPÖ fears further 30 km/h limits
In the SPÖ's view, 30 km/h in front of schools and kindergartens is a matter that does not require expertise, Alois Stöger (SPÖ) explained his group's rejection. He has already introduced a bill in 2022 that would make it possible for municipalities to have a 30 km/h speed limit. Melanie Erassim (SPÖ) demanded not only traffic safety but also legal certainty. Weratschnig countered Stojer, saying professional evaluations were needed. This is not necessarily an expert opinion.
Gerhard Diemeck (FPÖ) recognized some of the positive points of the amendment, but feared further restrictions on individual mobility. He warned that the regulation was the first step towards introducing a general speed limit of 30 km/h in the local area. He also took a critical view of dosing lamps: anything that compromises safety should be avoided.
The existing traffic light system should be retained – this regulation affects entrances to motorways and expressways
This is not about a system change for traffic lights, Ottenschläger stressed. Instead, traffic lights can be set up quickly at entrances to highways or expressways, if needed. The existing traffic light system should be retained.
Johannes Margreiter (NEOS) argued for a quick, simple process to implement speed limits in communities, especially for vulnerable road users: 50 km/h in a local area is too dangerous. Margrater explained his committee's approval was a step in the right direction for road safety, although he felt further simplification was desirable. He did not consider that the supply regulations that could remove the green traffic light restriction were legally clear. Christoph Stark (ÖVP) recognized that people are concerned about road safety in their immediate environment and that there is a strong need for action.
Andreas Ottenschläger (ÖVP) could not understand the SPÖ criticism. Sensitive areas that require special protection will be targeted. The community can decide for itself whether to provide expert opinion or not. This package gives communities the opportunity to achieve greater road safety and monitor this.
Gewessler wants to make roads safer for traffic
“Many people in communities experience too much and too fast traffic, which limits quality of life,” explained Transport Minister Leonore Küsler. In Austria, on average, a local commuter is injured in traffic every 20 minutes. So it is important to do everything possible to make streets in cities safer. Hence, the wish of mayors to decide on slow works themselves will be fulfilled. Speed restrictions are one of the most effective measures to reduce accidents and reduce traffic noise. (Continuation of National Assembly) gla
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