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Question 5061

In relation to road safety, why is it better to drive at 30 km/h on an urban road instead of 50 km/h?

  1. Because the lower the speed, the lower the probability that a pedestrian collision will be fatal.
  2. Because at 30 km/h aerodynamic drag is greater than at 50 km/h.
  3. Because traffic flows more smoothly and there is no risk of an accident.
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Because the lower the speed, the lower the probability that a pedestrian collision will be fatal.

At lower speeds, a pedestrian who is hit has a much better chance of surviving. The risk of killing a pedestrian at 50 km/h is about five times as high as at 30. You also need fewer meters to brake and can sometimes avoid hitting them. In the image, the street has a speed limit of 30, and there's a child with an adult next to the crosswalk.

Manual II. Cuestiones de Seguridad Vial, 2026 · Reglamento General de Circulación — Real Decreto 1428/2003