Bavaria Intensifies Speed Checks During Nationwide Speed Enforcement Week

Bavarian authorities are preparing for increased speed enforcement as part of a nationwide initiative aimed at enhancing road safety. Known as the Blitzermarathon, this coordinated operation will see an upsurge in speed monitoring across several regions in Germany, including Bavaria, during the spring months.

The primary objective of this initiative is to remind motorists of the importance of adhering to established speed limits, emphasizing that these limits are mandatory for all drivers and not merely recommendations. The campaign specifically targets accident-prone stretches of road, as well as areas with elevated risks such as school zones, construction sites, kindergartens, and hospital vicinities. These efforts are supported by organizations such as the German Automobile Club (ADAC), which notes that increased speed checks can raise public awareness about the dangers associated with speeding.

The first Speedweek of 2026 is scheduled from Monday, April 13, through Sunday, April 19. The main focus of the enforcement will take place on Wednesday, April 15, which coincides with the Easter holiday period when traffic volumes are typically higher. Speed checks will be conducted on highways, federal roads, and within urban areas throughout Bavaria and other participating states.

In terms of participation, most German states will be involved in the spring action, with some focusing primarily on the central enforcement day. Certain states, due to resource limitations or differing assessments of the campaign's effectiveness, may limit or forego their involvement. A detailed breakdown of participation demonstrates a broad national commitment, with regions including Baden-Württemberg, Berlin, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Hesse, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Schleswig-Holstein, and Thuringia all contributing to the effort in varying capacities.

Beyond Germany, several European countries are also expected to implement similar measures during this period. As such, drivers traveling internationally are advised to remain vigilant and observe local speed regulations to avoid penalties.

The penalties for exceeding speed limits in Bavaria during the Blitzermarathon are consistent with existing sanctions for traffic violations. Fines range from EUR30 for speeds up to 10 km/h over the limit, up to EUR800 for speeds exceeding the limit by more than 70 km/h. Depending on the severity of the offense, drivers may also accrue penalty points in the national registry and face temporary driving bans ranging from one to three months.

Authorities emphasize the significance of adjusting driving speeds to suit road and environmental conditions, highlighting that strict compliance with speed limits contributes to the safety of all road users. The campaign seeks to encourage individuals to regularly assess their driving habits and make necessary adjustments to promote a safer traffic environment.

With these targeted enforcement actions, Bavarian police and their counterparts across Germany aim to reduce the incidence of speed-related accidents, making the roads safer for everyone during the busy spring travel season and beyond.