Safety on motorways: DPolG and Autobahn GmbH in a dispute over security!

Safety on motorways: DPolG and Autobahn GmbH in a dispute over security!

Tempers are flaring in Saxony-Anhalt, especially when it comes to safety on the motorways. Before the hot travel season, there is a sharp conflict between the German Police Union (DPolG) and Autobahn GmbH. According to a report by Magdeburg clicks Autobahn GmbH is accused of inadequately securing dangerous areas. As a result, both first responders and emergency services are at risk in the event of breakdowns and accidents.

Olaf Sendel, the DPolG state chief, makes no secret of the fact that the motorway authorities have a duty. Since the beginning of the year, they have repeatedly rejected agreements made by the motorway police, particularly to secure accident and breakdown sites. Between five and ten such cases are said to have been documented in Halle, while an incident on the A38 near Sangerhausen was the last straw - the motorway maintenance department was refused support when changing a truck's tire.

Resource burden on the police

Autobahn GmbH argues that the driver or the roadside assistance service is responsible for minor incidents, such as emergency situations at breakdown sites. The master departments provided support in larger incidents. Sendel said: “No danger zone remains unsecured,” but the police have to take on the task, which puts a lot of strain on human resources. Here too, the DPolG is concerned about the safety of its members. Every year, numerous first responders and emergency responders are injured or even killed. There are no exact figures, which underlines the urgency of the issue.

The DPolG has committed itself to greater safety with a catalog of measures that includes technical improvements to vehicles, optimized equipment and changes to legal regulations. Furthermore, among other things, there are calls for new signal colors for company vehicles, as the current color is considered inadequate. In addition, the aim is to set up additional traffic control systems, particularly on three-lane motorway sections.

Cover on road traffic

An important point in the demands is the adaptation of the road traffic regulations (StVO) to reduce speed at accident scenes. Another proposal would increase penalties for reckless driving in these locations. It is clear that the DPolG is not alone in this - the ADAC and the Association of German Road Guards also support the discussion about improved safety precautions.

For the people who deal with danger on the roads every day, it is crucial that these issues are not only addressed, but also actively addressed. Anyone who thinks that everything is safe on motorways is wrong - and that is exactly what makes it a dangerous place for emergency services and road users. The pressure on those responsible is increasing and the Federal Ministry of Transport will examine what measures can be taken.

For detailed information about road safety and the challenges on German motorways, it is worth taking a look at the European road safety statistics Eurostat can be found.