Improved Road Safety Measures Implemented Between Zella Mehlis and Oberhof via Installation of "Shake Strips"
Improving Road Safety on the Zella-Mehlis to Oberhof Stretch
In a bid to enhance safety on the notoriously steep and winding A71 between Zella-Mehlis and Oberhof, seven of its most dangerous curves will soon be fitted with "rumble strips". These special road features, also known as "Grummelstreifen" or Fahrbahnschwellen, produce a loud rumbling noise when vehicles pass over them, alerting drivers who may be distracted or fatigued before they veer off the road or onto the shoulder.
The decision to install these rumble strips was made by the responsible local road authority - the Straßenbauamt Südwestthüringen in collaboration with the Thüringer Behörden für Straßenwesen. Traffic safety authorities, the Federal Road Authority, and the Thuringian Ministry for Infrastructure and Agriculture were also involved in the decision-making process.
Background
The A71 between Zella-Mehlis and Oberhof is notorious for its extreme steep gradients, narrow curves, and high accident rate. Numerous severe accidents have occurred on the seven most dangerous curves (including the "Geratal-Kurve"), particularly during wet conditions or when heavy goods vehicles are involved.
Measures and Decisions
In 2015/2016, several construction phases saw the introduction of these unique rumble strips. These consist of raised lines or bumps along the edge of the road, which produce a loud rumbling noise when vehicles drive over them. This helps to warn drivers who may be distracted or tired, preventing them from veering off the road or onto the shoulder.
Responsible Parties
- Straßenbauamt Südwestthüringen: Detailed planning and implementation
- Landesbehörde für Straßenbau und Verkehr Thüringen: Overall planning and approval
- Bundesanstalt für Straßenwesen (BASt): Technical advice and recommendations
- Thüringer Ministerium für Infrastruktur und Landwirtschaft: Political responsibility
Evaluation
Since the introduction of the rumble strips, the number of accidents, particularly on these curves, has noticeably decreased. This measure is considered a successful example of innovative traffic safety in road construction.
In Other News A short video documenting the installation of the rumble strips on the A71 between Zella-Mehlis and Oberhof was broadcasted on FERNSEHENMo08.09.2025 at 17:47 Uhr. The video, which lasts 00:27 minutes, belongs to MIDDLE GERMAN BROADCASTING. The video can be found on their website.
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