A new road sign has appeared on Polish roads - a green speed limit sign. Unlike the usual signs with a red border, this green sign is not mandatory, but only a recommendation. It indicates the suggested safe driving speed in certain areas, for example near schools or residential areas. Drivers who exceed the speed indicated on this sign are not fined, but it is recommended to adhere to the suggested speed in order to ensure greater traffic safety.
These green signs were first introduced in the United Kingdom as part of a road safety initiative. Their aim is to encourage drivers to voluntarily reduce their speed in areas where there is a higher concentration of pedestrians, especially children. Although these signs are not mandatory, research shows that most drivers adhere to the suggested speed, especially when the signs are clearly visible and logically arranged.
Other European countries also use speed limit signs, but their design varies. For example, Germany uses blue rectangular signs indicating a recommended speed of 130 km/h on certain sections of the autobahn. Spain uses blue square signs, and Norway uses white square signs with black markings. These signs are also not mandatory, but they encourage drivers to choose a safer speed.
Although green speed limit signs are not currently used in Lithuania, their installation could be considered as an additional measure to improve traffic safety. Such signs could be useful in areas with a higher concentration of pedestrians or where traffic accidents often occur..
It is important to note that although green speed limit signs are not mandatory, they play an important role in promoting safer driving and reducing the risk of accidents. Drivers should view them as useful information to help them choose the appropriate speed in specific situations.
