In a recent interview with the Hannoversche Allgemeine Zeitung (HAZ), Prof. Bernhard Friedrich commented on the debate about 30 km/h as the standard speed limit on main inner-city roads. His assessment: a general speed reduction does not necessarily lead to gridlocked traffic.

“Instead, delays and time losses occur at intersections and traffic lights,” says Prof. Friedrich. In addition, the average speed on main roads in cities is only just under 30 km/h anyway. A reduction in the speed limit would therefore have a positive effect on road safety and noise emissions without significantly affecting the flow of traffic.

Prof. Friedrich therefore advocates the introduction of 30 km/h as the standard speed limit on main roads. At the same time, he argues that the decision-making for exceptions should lie with the local authorities, as they are best placed to assess the local conditions.

The full interview was published in the 22.01.2025 edition of the Hannoversche Allgemeine Zeitung.