The aim is to crack down more intensively on speeding drivers. The initiative comes right in the middle of the summer holiday season – just as school vacations begin in Bavaria, which, notably, is not taking part this year. The so-called “Speed Camera Marathon” is part of the Europe-wide “Speed Week,” during which increased speed checks will be carried out from Monday through Sunday.
Speed Checks Across Europe: Travelers Should Be Especially Cautious
“Speed Week” is coordinated by the European Roads Policing Network (ROADPOL), a coalition of traffic police forces from across Europe. These cross-border enforcement campaigns are held twice a year – in April and August. While the spring campaign tends to be broader in scope, the August edition is also used to raise awareness among both vacationers and regular drivers about the importance of obeying speed limits.
This summer, participation levels vary across Europe – with Italy reportedly showing strong engagement this time. Although most countries do not publicly disclose the exact locations of their speed cameras ahead of time, increased vigilance is advised throughout the continent.
National Participation – Bavaria Again Sits It Out
In Germany, several federal states are joining the initiative, including Baden-Württemberg, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, Brandenburg, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saxony-Anhalt, and Schleswig-Holstein. Bavaria, however, is again opting out of the August edition, as it has done in previous years. The state traditionally focuses on the spring enforcement campaign in April.
In the participating states, speed traps are often set up in sensitive areas, such as near schools, senior centers, hospitals, bus stops, and construction zones. In Schleswig-Holstein, the state police have stated that the likelihood of encountering a speed check is currently very high, with mobile patrols operating in rotating locations to maximize coverage.
Speeding Still the Leading Cause of Fatal Traffic Accidents
According to Germany’s Federal Statistical Office, excessive or inappropriate speed remains the leading cause of fatal traffic accidents in the country. In 2024, approximately one in three deadly accidents was due to speeding. Other major causes include tailgating and failure to yield the right of way.
While the German Police Union supports the campaign, it emphasizes that short-term enforcement alone is not enough to bring about long-lasting changes in driver behavior. The German automobile club ADAC, however, views “Speed Week” positively:
“Media coverage surrounding the campaign raises awareness – even among drivers who are not directly affected by the checks.”
Interior officials such as Saxony-Anhalt’s Minister Tamara Zieschang also regard the initiative as an effective tool for improving road safety. The goal, she said, is to deter reckless drivers and heighten public awareness of the need for safer driving.
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