European advisory speed signs and flash‑week speed checks roll out across Belgium and the Netherlands

A new advisory speed sign with a green border, showing a recommended speed rather than a legal limit, is already in use in France, Spain and the United Kingdom and is being examined for adoption in Italy. Belgian road authorities note that the sign is not yet official in Belgium but highlight its potential to improve safety in areas such as schools, busy shopping streets and locations with many cyclists and pedestrians.

From 3 to 9 August, the European flash week organised by the road‑police cooperation ROADPOL will see intensified speed monitoring in the Oosterhout region of the Netherlands. During the previous flash week, about 60,000 vehicles were checked and 1,938 speed violations were recorded. Dutch police will use radar, laser and covert video‑surveillance equipment, and will also enforce rules on mobile‑phone use, alcohol or drug driving and truck driver rest periods. Fines can be issued from any participating EU country and are sent to the driver’s home address.

Both initiatives aim to raise driver awareness and reduce traffic casualties, especially as many motorists travel to holiday destinations.