On April 9, 2025, Hessen will join the nationwide "Blitzermarathon," an initiative aimed at curbing speeding on its roads. This event is part of a broader campaign known as "Speedweek," which runs from April 7 to April 13, and sees participation from nearly all German federal states, except Berlin and Saarland.
The Blitzermarathon is set to take place from 6 AM to 10 PM, with police monitoring speed at various locations across the region. The specific radar trap sites have been announced by local authorities, but the police have also indicated that unannounced speed traps will be in place to catch drivers off guard.
According to the ADAC, the Blitzermarathon is a crucial step towards improving road safety in Germany. "A week like this alone does not eliminate all risks on the roads, but it should prompt drivers to reconsider their driving habits," said a spokesperson. The initiative is organized by Roadpol, the European traffic police network, and aims to raise awareness about the dangers of speeding.
During the Blitzermarathon, drivers caught speeding will face significant penalties, including fines, points on their driving records, and potential driving bans. The new "Bußgeldkatalog" (fine catalog) for 2025 introduces a revised points system for traffic violations. Under this system, one point is awarded for minor offenses that affect road safety and incur a fine of at least 60 euros. More serious violations, classified as either a crime without license revocation or an administrative offense with a driving ban, will result in two points. The most severe offenses, such as driving under the influence or without a valid license, will lead to an automatic license revocation and three points on the driver's record.
In Hessen, the Blitzermarathon will focus on high-risk areas, including school zones and construction sites, to ensure the safety of pedestrians and other road users. The police will employ a variety of speed measuring devices, including handheld laser devices, mobile and stationary speed cameras, and specially equipped police vehicles.
Previous Blitzermarathons have shown that weather can significantly impact the outcomes. For instance, during the 2024 event, rainy conditions contributed to fewer speeding violations, as many drivers slowed down. However, the police expect that with the clear communication of radar trap locations, drivers might become more cautious but also more aware of their speeding habits.
Following the April Blitzermarathon, the next "Speedweek" is scheduled for August 4 to August 10, 2025, coinciding with the summer vacation period. This timing is strategic, as it aligns with increased travel activity and aims to maintain a focus on road safety during peak travel times.
In the lead-up to the event, police in Hessen are encouraging drivers to remain vigilant and adhere to speed limits. They emphasize the importance of following traffic regulations not only to avoid penalties but to ensure the safety of all road users.
As the Blitzermarathon approaches, the police are also leveraging social media to spread awareness and engage with the community. Under the hashtag #Speedmarathon, they aim to inform the public about the event and its significance in promoting road safety across Hessen and beyond.
The Blitzermarathon is a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by speeding and reckless driving. Authorities hope that through initiatives like this, they can foster a culture of responsible driving and ultimately reduce the number of traffic accidents.
Drivers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the locations of radar traps and consider their driving speed, especially in areas where children are present or where accidents are more likely to occur. The Blitzermarathon serves not just as a deterrent but as an educational opportunity for all road users.
In summary, the Blitzermarathon on April 9, 2025, is part of a broader effort to enhance road safety in Hessen and across Germany. With a focus on high-risk areas and the implementation of new traffic violation regulations, the initiative aims to decrease speeding incidents and promote safer driving practices among motorists.
