Berlin Traffic Safety Board Urges Caution for New School Year

As Berlin welcomes thousands of young students back to school, the State Traffic Safety Board is urging all road users to exercise heightened caution. With around 36,000 first-graders entering the school system this week, the campaign aims to ensure their safe transition onto busy streets.

Large banners are being displayed at nearly 400 public primary schools, and messages are appearing on buses and e-scooters. The initiative, backed by the Senate Department for Transport, the Berlin Police, ADAC, and BVG, emphasizes the need for greater mutual consideration on the roads. "We need more consideration and more togetherness in road traffic – especially now at the start of school," stated Governing Mayor Kai Wegner.

Traffic safety officials highlight that young children often struggle to accurately judge distances, speeds, and complex traffic situations. Consequently, drivers are advised to be particularly attentive and adjust their speed. The campaign also acknowledges the crucial role of over 1,300 volunteer student crossing guards who assist children daily. Official statistics reveal that children aged 6 to 14 are particularly vulnerable to traffic accidents on weekdays between 7 and 8 a.m., coinciding with school commute times. In the first half of this year, 332 children were injured in traffic accidents in Berlin, with one fatality.

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We need more consideration and more togetherness in road traffic – especially now at the start of school.