To reduce the number of traffic casualties on Flemish roads, it is necessary to look beyond individual measures. An integrated approach to the entire system is essential to achieve the goals of the Flanders Road Safety Plan. While safe behavior by road users is important, it is not sufficient on its own. What is needed is a system that encourages safe behavior and minimizes the consequences of human error.
Safe traffic can only be realized when all components of the system work together and reinforce one another. It is more difficult for individuals to behave safely in an environment that is unsafe, where rules are unclear, and where there is no accountability for one's actions. Therefore, behavior change cannot be achieved through education and campaigns alone. These must be combined with clear policies, safe infrastructure, innovative technologies, consistent enforcement, and critical evaluation.
This approach can be compared to a symphony orchestra: no matter how skilled the individual musicians may be, the music sounds best when all instruments play in harmony.
A safe traffic system is like a chain—it is only as strong as its weakest link. To improve traffic safety in Flanders, a systems approach is required. As long as one link remains weak, the entire chain remains vulnerable. Every link, therefore, matters.
