Low Speed Zones: A Measure to Save Lives - Policy Brief

This policy brief addresses global and Brazilian traffic fatalities, emphasizing that excessive vehicle speed significantly increases crash likelihood and severity. To counter this, municipal governments can establish low speed zones, traditionally capping speeds between 20 and 40 kilometres per hour in areas with dense pedestrian and cyclist circulation. Implementing these zones requires traffic calming measures like street redesign to naturally reduce driving speeds. Evidence shows these zones dramatically lower crash fatalities, improve pollutant emissions, encourage active travel, and stimulate local economies.