Road safety continues to be the main reason that moves the different public organizations to review constantly the regulation of the road network in Spain.
With the reduction in the number of traffic accidents annually as the first objective, the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) and the Servei Catala de Trànsit (SCT) – among many others – are working on the remodeling and proposal of measures that guarantee the safety of drivers.
Fewer fatalities in Catalonia
The improvements appear to have taken effect this summer in Cataloniawhere the number of fatalities (33) between June 24 and September 9 was reduced to a 11% compared to last year’s data, according to SCT data. However, statistics show that vulnerable groups (cyclists, motorcyclists or pedestrians), who practically represent the half Of these deaths (48%), they continue to be exposed to a higher degree of risk of suffering accidents.
The figures also reflect a significant increase in the number of seriously injuredwith a total of 22638% more than last year. Nor does the count of the total number of accidents returns positive data: 1.859 from 1,833 in 2023. In total, the number of victims reaches 2,757, 27 more than the same period last year.
In summary, the decline in mortality on Catalan roads during the summer season was the favorable side of a series of data that confirm that there is still a lot of work to do in terms of security the steering wheel refers. In order to continue improving in this and other aspects, Trànsit is implementing a series of new measures that affect busy roads such as the AP-7.
Changes in the section from Vilafranca to Martorell
Although it is true that the accidents in the Mediterranean highway have decreased – a rebound effect after the previous increase, recorded as a result of the liberalization of tolls in 2021 – Trànsit remains concerned about the small accidents which cause long queues on this road.
Thus, the SCT has implemented measures to alleviate these retentions on peak dates. Since September 15, the section between Vilafranca del Penedès and Martorell is limited to a maximum speed of 100 km/h when additional lanes are enabled and during weekend or holiday return operations to Barcelona. The entry into force of this standard is accompanied by speed control systems (with the corresponding sanctions) and informative posters to warn of the high concentration of accidents.
By the end of this year the project to reduce the speed also at 100 km/h between El Vendrell and Maçanet de la Selvaa section with a total length of more than 100 kilometers.
**How effective do you believe stricter enforcement of existing traffic laws, such as penalties for using mobile phones while driving, would be in curbing accidents involving vulnerable road users like cyclists and pedestrians?**
## World Today News Interview: Road Safety in Spain
**Introduction:**
Welcome to World Today News. Today we’re discussing the ongoing efforts to improve road safety in Spain. We have two esteemed guests with us: [Guest 1 Name & Title] and [Guest 2 Name & Title]. Thank you both for joining us.
**Section 1: The Big Picture – Progress and Challenges**
**Interviewer:** Let’s start by addressing the statistics. The article highlights a reduction in fatalities in Catalonia during the summer months, which is positive news. However, it also points out that vulnerable road users like cyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians remain at high risk.
* [Guest 1], from your perspective, what are some of the key factors contributing to this positive decline in fatalities?
* [Guest 2], given the continued vulnerability of these groups, what specific measures do you think should be prioritized to protect them?
**Section 2: Tackling Traffic Congestion and Accidents on Busy Roads**
**Interviewer:** The article focuses on the AP-7 highway and the recent adjustments made to address traffic congestion and accident occurrences.
* [Guest 1], could you elaborate on the rationale behind lowering the speed limit to 100km/h in certain sections of the AP-7? Do you believe this is an effective solution, and are there any potential downsides to consider?
* [Guest 2], what are your thoughts on the effectiveness of speed control systems and informative posters in changing driver behavior? Are there any other strategies you believe could be helpful in mitigating congestion and accidents on busy roads like the AP-7?
**Section 3: Looking Ahead – Future Strategies for Road Safety**
**Interviewer:** Beyond the specific measures mentioned in the article, what are some innovative or long-term strategies that you see as crucial for enhancing road safety in Spain?
* [Guest 1],
are there any international best practices or technological advancements that could be implemented in Spain?
* [Guest 2],
what role do you see education and public awareness playing in fostering a culture of responsible driving and road safety?
**Conclusion:**
**Interviewer:**
Thank you both for sharing your valuable insights. It’s clear that improving road safety in Spain is a continuous effort that requires collaboration between policymakers, traffic authorities, and the public. We hope this discussion has shed light on the progress made, the challenges that remain, and the potential solutions for the future.
