Belgian authorities implement speed cameras for cyclists

The authorities in Flanders, Belgium, are planning to install speed cameras and implement section speed measurements on bicycle paths. They've been compelled to take this step due to the rising number of fatal accidents involving cyclists.

The maximum speed limit on a bicycle path is approximately 18 mph, and bicycles cannot be overtaken by cars, scooters or e-bikes on the streets. Unfortunately, traffic conditions in Flanders have proven to be more severe. The belgiannewsagency.eu website reported an eight percent increase in fatal accidents in 2022. The year witnessed the death of 95 cyclists, up from 74 the previous year, an alarming rise attributed to the growing popularity of biking.

In the early months of 2023, 14.1 percent of Belgians, for instance, were commuting to work by bicycle. This figure has seen a considerable jump from 2005 when it was just 7.8 percent. Electric bikes have been the prime catalyst for this increased interest, with no other mode of transport witnessing a similar surge.

In response to this trend, Flanders authorities have concurred on the installation of speed cameras and section speed measurements. Identifying a cyclist could be challenging, but Belgium is already working towards creating a central bicycle registry - initially intended to reduce bicycle theft.