ETSC sets out road safety priorities for the Danish EU Presidency
As Denmark takes over the Presidency of the Council of the EU, ETSC is urging ministers to put road safety at the heart of their agenda. With 20,000 people still dying on EU roads each year and progress towards the 2030 EU target badly off track, stronger action is essential.
Roadworthiness rules must be strengthened. ETSC calls for periodic checks to cover all vehicles, including mopeds and motorcycles up to 125cc – currently excluded from the Commission’s proposal. Technical failures on powered two-wheelers have particularly severe consequences, and inspections could prevent a significant number of crashes. Annual checks for older cars and vans, as well as rigorous testing of new electronic safety systems, are also vital.
EU budget plans must prioritise road safety. Investment in safer infrastructure and proven life-saving measures should be protected and reinforced in the 2028–2034 funding period.
On weights and dimensions of heavy goods vehicles, ETSC warns against expanding “megatrucks” across Europe, citing risks for safety and infrastructure.
The Presidency should also back reforms to close the loophole on Individual Vehicle Approvals, which currently allows unsafe large pick-ups and SUVs into the EU without meeting all modern EU safety standards.
Finally, ETSC calls for no dilution of EU rules in ongoing trade negotiations, and for the creation of a dedicated EU road safety agency to oversee assisted and automated driving.