A significant advance in road safety
Collada de Toses, a well-known mountain pass in Ripollès, has become the epicentre of an innovative pilot test aimed at improving motorcyclist safety. Since its implementation last year, 65% of motorcyclists have begun to follow the marking signs indicating dangerous curves, according to data from the Servei Català de Trànsit (SCT).
The director of the SCT, Ramon Lamiel, has expressed his satisfaction with the initial results. “The results obtained are not bad,” he stated, highlighting that these markings are based on a successful model previously used in Austria. The elliptical stickers are designed to guide motorcyclists and prevent lane invasions or head-on collisions.
Starting in June and July, new recordings will be made to assess whether this trend continues or if it is necessary to expand the signage. Additionally, further controls are planned along the stretch from the Parador to Ribes de Freser.
Since the beginning of the year until the end of May, preventive measures have been intensified with over 2,000 controls carried out by the Mossos d'Esquadra. This has resulted in nearly 9,000 fines, reflecting a strong commitment from the authorities to reduce accidents among motorcyclists.
Despite the progress made, Lamiel emphasizes that motorcyclists remain one of the most vulnerable groups on the road. So far this year, 21 motorcyclists have lost their lives in traffic accidents, many of them on roads in Barcelona. “With the arrival of good weather, we unfortunately see an increase in motorcycle-related accidents,” he added.
For Lamiel, a persistent combination of measures is essential to continue reducing these tragic incidents. This includes not only training on safe driving and proper signage but also the strategic use of aerial surveillance via helicopters to detect violations.
As this pilot program progresses, similar initiatives could be implemented in different regions due to the interest shown by various local administrations. The accumulated experience could be key to establishing new regulations that further strengthen road safety.
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