Dangerous Roads in Norway. Will Tourists Be Banned from Driving?
Northern Norway is facing a surge in road collisions and accidents on snow-covered routes. Local emergency services warn that the statistics are getting worse. Is introducing new, strict regulations for foreigners the only way to improve safety?
In the photo: view from a road camera in Hemnes.
Fot. screenshot, Statens vegvesen (zdjęcie archiwalne)
Winter conditions can surprise even the most experienced drivers. This year, a sudden onset of winter combined with the lack of experience among visitors has created an explosive mix. There is growing talk about the need to take decisive legal action.
Dangerous Roads of the North. The Number of Incidents Is Drastically Increasing
Statistics leave no doubt about the scale of the problem. Viking roadside assistance in Tromsø has reported a 25 percent increase in callouts. Cases of vehicles skidding off the road alone have risen by over 36 percent. Rescuers point out that on difficult days, it is mainly visitors who make up the majority of those needing help.
Many foreign drivers cannot assess the grip on icy surfaces. It often happens that people from warmer countries see snow for the first time in their lives when renting a car. The lack of basic skills leads to blocked roads. The situation has been worsened by the exceptionally sudden arrival of frost and heavy snowfall.
Many foreign drivers cannot assess the grip on icy surfaces. It often happens that people from warmer countries see snow for the first time in their lives when renting a car. The lack of basic skills leads to blocked roads. The situation has been worsened by the exceptionally sudden arrival of frost and heavy snowfall.
Slippery roads are a constant feature of the Norwegian winter.Photo: PxHere
Controversial Proposal from Politicians. Mandatory Training for Tourists
Richard Dagsvik from the Nordland County Council proposes introducing special winter driving courses. In his opinion, the authorities have ignored the danger posed by unprepared drivers for too long. Tourists would have to undergo intensive training on slippery surfaces. Only successfully completing the course would give them the right to drive vehicles.
The initiative is causing strong emotions among entrepreneurs and government representatives. The tourism industry fears that additional requirements will effectively discourage guests from visiting the northern regions.
The Ministry of Transport points to Norway's international obligations. According to officials, introducing local mandatory courses may be contrary to existing agreements and treaties.
The initiative is causing strong emotions among entrepreneurs and government representatives. The tourism industry fears that additional requirements will effectively discourage guests from visiting the northern regions.
The Ministry of Transport points to Norway's international obligations. According to officials, introducing local mandatory courses may be contrary to existing agreements and treaties.
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