HIDE AND SPEAK: USING COMMUNICATION TO IMPROVE ENFORCEMENT - THE DUTCH APPROACH

The Enforcement Consulting Centre in The Netherlands has developed a practical method of incorporating enforcement communication into its enforcement strategy. The Centre has coordinated over 50 regional and local traffic enforcement projects in The Netherlands since early 1996, and has been successful in reducing speed and red light violations. Enforcement communication informs drivers that there might be a police officer on enforcement duty, but does not require permanent police presence. Drivers know that their speed could be checked in a certain area, but do not know the exact location and time. The aim is to encourage drivers to comply with speed limits and other traffic regulations, not to maximise revenue from traffic fines. The basic rule is not to enforce without communication, and not to communicate without enforcement. Credibility requires enforcement, and communication must be used to raise the perceived chance of being caught. An enforcement signal, in the form of a pictogram sign, is the most effective way to inform drivers. Before enforcement starts, controls should be announced in the media, including local newspapers and television. Enforcement communication leads to a greater reduction of speed level per unit enforcement effort.