Speed Week: Increased speed checks in Berlin and Brandenburg

A Berlin Police mobile speed camera is parked on a street in Mitte. (File photo)

This week, police in Berlin and Brandenburg are stepping up their efforts to crack down on speeders and other traffic offenders.

The so-called "speed camera marathon" (German: Blitzermarathon) begins today and runs through Sunday. Unlike in previous years, the Berlin police are also participating in "Speed Week" this time. In Brandenburg, the police are focusing primarily on monitoring speeds outside built-up areas, according to reports.

"Speed Week" takes place in several European countries

The campaign week, which takes place annually in April and August, is intended to improve road safety. Several European countries participate in "Speed Week." The checks are coordinated by the European traffic police network Roadpool. The Berlin Police had previously stated that they conduct checks throughout the year and therefore do not specifically participate in the campaign week. However, according to a spokeswoman, the agency now intends to verify whether its findings regarding accident hotspots and popular speeding routes are still accurate - or whether adjustments need to be made.

Seven people have already died in traffic accidents in 2026

During the "speed camera marathon," police officers will be patrolling accident-prone roads and intersections, as well as school routes and areas around hospitals and senior care facilities, with increased frequency. According to the "Berliner Kurier," mobile speed cameras will be deployed more extensively, particularly in the eastern part of the city. So far this year (as of April 7), seven people have died in traffic accidents in Berlin, according to police data. Last year, 37 people died on the city’s roads (2024: 55). The police recorded a total of 137,373 accidents—3.01 percent more than in 2024.