PROS AND CONS OF SPEED LIMITS ON GERMAN MOTORWAYS

The controversial discussions during the last few years in the Federal republic of Germany about the advantages and disadvantages of a of 100 km/h on German motorways in order to protect woodlands from air pollution has led to a comprehensive study at the technical university darmstadt, in which 22 criteria were investigated. A simple procedure was used to evaluate the mutual effects of limits of 100 km/h, 120 km/h and 130 km/h compared with the recommended speed of 130 km/h now in effect. Of course, an optimum limit cannot be determined scientifically. But a of 120 km/h has more advantages than disadvantages, if compared with other limits and with the present situation (no limit). A of 120 km/h seems to be a good compromise. It is suitable for comfortable cars and for high standard motorways; it increases safety; it protects the environment against the adverse effects of car traffic; it does not cause serious economical disadvantages -not even for the German automobile industry -and it may fundamentally amend the principle attitude of drivers when using cars and when choosing the appropriate desired speed. Until now, the German government has rejected any proposal for introducing a on motorways, and, the Federal republic of Germany is still the only country in Europe without a on motorways.