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Study Says Speed, Not Design, Behind Groningen ‘Mario Kart’ Bend Crashes

The province will test bright markers with targeted speed checks to slow drivers before the curve.

Overview

  • Roelofs, presenting its review Tuesday, found the curve is not unsafe and linked most of the 21 recorded crashes to drivers entering too fast and braking late.
  • The province will add bright raised yellow strips on the barrier from late May, plus clearer signs and anti-glare screens, with overhead matrix warnings considered if crashes continue.
  • Police plan regular speed checks near the approach to push speeds down before the turn.
  • Three quarters of crash-involved drivers are men under 30, and smaller, lighter cars spin more often because hard braking loads the front axle and the rear wheels lose grip.
  • A second hotspot known as the Hornbachbocht will get stronger warnings, new lane-edge markings, and tree removal to improve sight lines.