- "Vision Zero": Saxony wants to reduce traffic accidents
Saxony aims to improve road safety in the Free State with a new program. The "Vision Zero" remains the ultimate goal for Transport Minister Martin Dulig (SPD). The aim is to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on the roads and ultimately achieve zero road fatalities, he said after the cabinet meeting where the concept was adopted. It replaces a program from 1993. Dulig said it was time for changes. There are now new modes of transport like e-scooters, and competition for road space is increasing.
Dulig: Human behavior is crucial
"The behavior of people plays a crucial role," emphasized the minister. There is growing radicalization in many areas of society, which is also reflected in traffic. In terms of road safety, it is particularly important to protect vulnerable road users such as children and the elderly. Dulig called for municipalities to have more flexibility in designating 30 km/h zones. This is not about lowering the speed limit to 30 km/h in cities, but rather in areas around hospitals, schools, or retirement homes. Safety must be balanced with the "principle of smooth traffic flow."
Dulig expressed concern that the number of road accidents could also increase this year. In 2023, 188 people died and 3,411 were seriously injured in traffic accidents in the Free State. There were also 12,790 minor injuries. More than a third (35 percent) of the later fatalities were pedestrians or cyclists. In the first half of 2024, there were 74 road deaths, 1,723 serious injuries, 6,388 minor injuries, and 6,952 accidents with personal injury.
Minister calls for more mutual respect on the roads
Dulig said the safety program is about "more mutual respect instead of confrontation." The concept covers six key areas. Road safety is defined as a societal task. A particular focus is on pedestrians and safe footpaths. Saxony is committed to creating safe and barrier-free traffic infrastructure, it was stated. Municipalities are encouraged to create wide footpaths and safe crossings. Children and young people are at the center. Every fifth pedestrian accident involves this age group. The program also aims to promote safe cycling, including cycling training in schools.
The program is a framework that now needs to be filled, said the minister. The work of the road safety association will continue to be supported. This Sunday, another road safety day is planned on the Sachsenring. Dulig praised the format. The topic is addressed in the context of a folk festival. Throughout the day, there are presentations that aim to make road safety tangible and understandable. Visitors can test drive an electric car, hydrogen car, or cargo bike. Those who want to change their perspective can drive a bus or truck.
In the context of improving road safety in Saxony, Dulig highlighted the importance of Dresden, stating, "We must also consider the behaviors of people in Dresden, as radicalization can impact traffic safety as well." Further emphasizing the program, Dulig mentioned, "This initiative in Dresden will focus on promoting mutual respect on the roads, recognizing that safe traffic infrastructure is crucial for all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists."
