Náchod, Czech Republic – Starting Monday, Náchod will begin monitoring the speeds of passing vehicles at three locations, with drivers exceeding the speed limit subject to fines. The primary objective of these measures is to enhance safety and reduce traffic in the city, which is home to approximately twenty thousand residents.

Instant speed measurements will be conducted at two locations, while one stretch of road will be monitored continuously. The speed limit at all three locations is set at 50 kilometers per hour. Prior to this implementation, Náchod did not enforce automatic speed measurements.

The first location for instant speed measurement is at the entrance to Náchod on Českoskalická Street, known as Rybárna, which is part of the I/33 road from Hradec Králové. The second instant speed measurement will occur on Kostelecká Street near Plhov Elementary School, situated on the I/14 road from Červený Kostelec to Náchod.

The stretch speed monitoring, conducted in both directions, will take place in the district of Malé Poříčí on Broumovská Street, forming part of the II/303 road from Náchod to Hronov.

Although the monitoring locations will lack vertical traffic signs indicating speed measurements, each location will have a digital speed indicator to remind speeding drivers to slow down. The system will also enable vehicle traffic monitoring, providing valuable information to the police, such as during vehicle or person searches.

The city invested nearly five million Czech korunas in implementing the system and initially hired two employees for the transportation department to manage the increased workload associated with issuing fines. Based on experiences from other cities, the city council estimates that the investment will be recouped within a year.

Traffic safety is of paramount importance, as speeding can have severe consequences for drivers and other road users. Náchod’s introduction of speed monitoring is a proactive step toward ensuring the safety of all road users within the city. By enforcing speed limits, the city aims to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

While speed monitoring is crucial, it is equally important for drivers to assume responsibility for their actions on the road. By adhering to speed limits and driving responsibly, drivers can contribute to a safer driving environment and help reduce the risk of accidents.

Looking ahead, it is essential to continue prioritizing traffic safety and exploring technological advancements that may further enhance road safety. Automated vehicles and intelligent transportation systems hold potential to mitigate accidents and improve traffic flow. By collaborating, cities, drivers, and technology companies can collectively strive to create a safer and more efficient transportation system for everyone.

Article by Prague Forum