Amid what is described as a “speed enforcement marathon” Jochen Kopelke, the Federal Chairman of the Police Union (GdP), is advocating for increased resources for the police force. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post” on Tuesday, he noted that the personnel and technical effort required for a “Speedweek” is considerable, especially given existing staffing shortages. Although this effort is worthwhile because such highly focused campaigns send a clear message that traffic safety is a top priority, he stressed that a “Speedweek” cannot be an isolated event. For lasting impact, traffic controls must be conducted regularly, across all regions, and utilizing modern technology. According to Kopelke, many drivers only adjusted their behavior in the short term, implying that the expectation of constant monitoring is necessary for sustained behavioral change. Therefore, he stated that the police must be equipped in terms of personnel, finances, and technology to ensure continuous traffic monitoring, adding that events like the “Speedweek” are just one element, but not a substitute for permanent structural improvements.
Echoing this concern, the German Association of Cities and Municipalities (DStGB) also commented. The DStGB representative, Timm Fuchs, told the “Rheinische Post” that while the so-called “speed enforcement marathon” represents additional workload for local governments, it can be beneficial because it raises awareness about excessive speed, at best leading to more careful driving in the short term. He clarified that the goal of these actions is not issuing fines, but rather increasing traffic safety. Furthermore, he pointed out that this activity does not replace the need for continuous traffic surveillance.
