Lowering speed limits as a measure should not replace structural solutions, but should be seen as one step towards raising the structural level of main roads.
BUS/4030/07.02.03/2024
Opinion 14.6.2024
- What kind of effects do you estimate the planned changes to road speed limits will have
your activities (timetables, travel times, perceived safety and accessibility, walking and cycling traffic
security etc.)?
The idea of the Swedish model, i.e. structurally separating the driving directions on roads that
a speed limit of at least 100 km/h must be supported and Finland should strive towards this
goal. In addition to the improvement of traffic safety, movement would also become more efficient as a society
we would get significant savings. Lowering speed limits as a measure should not be replaced
structural solutions, but it should be seen as one step towards the structural level of main roads
lifting. In addition to separating driving directions, the safety and movement of all road users
Sufficient width and paving of the footpaths would also increase smoothness.
Instead of categorically reducing the speed, a plan should be made for those who have come forward now
about fixing the most significant main road objects to match their current speed limit
level. - What do you think about improving traffic safety by changing speed limits? What kind
what other means would you suggest considering the limited financial resources for the development of the bus network?
Improving traffic safety in some destinations by lowering the speed limit is
justified. Categorical lowering of the restriction to a certain amount of traffic and road width
bound is not a workable solution that could be implemented in the whole of Finland. Especially in Lapland
this can cause problems and even lead to unintentional overspeeding. In addition to the total traffic volume
when making an assessment, it would be good to also take into account the amount of heavy traffic on the road sections. - How do road speed limits support the national transport system plan
set goals and plans for the development of the transport system in your area?
The planned measures have an impact on the goals of the Transport 12 plan in particular
the accessibility and efficiency of the areas to the goals. Regarding the efficiency target, it is recorded that
the utilization of the existing transport network is maximized and to correct the deficiencies
the most efficient and effective measures are implemented. Speed limit system
however, the change may not be like this, but now structural solutions would be needed