More speed cameras on the roads: Government aims to strengthen average speed enforcement in Portugal

Portugal is preparing to reinforce speed control on its roads with the installation of 12 new average speed cameras. The measure, announced by the Government, is part of a broader road safety strategy aimed at reducing accidents and encouraging safer driving behaviour.

At this stage, the National Road Safety Authority (ANSR) is assessing where these new systems will be installed. Priority will be given to locations identified as critical points across the national road network, where the risk of accidents is higher.

More control to reduce accidents

The introduction of these new cameras is not just about enforcement, but also prevention. The goal is for drivers to see these systems as an incentive to comply with traffic rules, promoting more responsible driving.

This expansion follows the rollout of the first 12 average speed cameras in Portugal in September 2023. These systems work by measuring the time a vehicle takes to travel between two points, calculating its average speed over that distance.

Currently, these cameras are installed on several roads, including motorways and national roads such as the A1, A25, A42, as well as the EN10, EN109 and EN211, among others.

Technology and artificial intelligence in road safety

In addition to increasing the number of cameras, the Government is also planning to invest in artificial intelligence to improve traffic monitoring and accident prevention.

Among the measures under consideration are systems capable of detecting incidents in real time through video analysis, identifying potential hazards automatically. A pilot project is also expected to monitor seatbelt usage and driver behaviour.

Despite the focus on technology, authorities stress that human behaviour remains a key factor. Speeding continues to be one of the leading causes of road accidents and is responsible for a significant number of fatalities.

Goal: fewer victims on the roads

These measures are part of the “Vision Zero” programme, which sets ambitious road safety targets for Portugal. The aim is to reduce fatalities and serious injuries by at least 50% by 2030, compared to 2019 levels.

In the long term, the goal is even more ambitious: achieving zero road deaths and zero serious injuries by 2050.

With more cameras, tighter control and the support of technology, the direction is clear. Now, it remains to be seen how drivers will respond and how effective these measures will be in making Portuguese roads safer.

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Sources: Público; SIC Notícias.