Road surface remains intact – new technology is used
The orange rumble strips are made of colored cold plastic mixed with crushed rock dust or broken glass. This tough substance is applied to precisely defined areas using a so-called drag shoe. A profile on the back of the drag shoe creates the characteristic structure of the strips. After application, additional material is scattered to increase grip – both on dry and wet road surfaces.
Despite the application, the asphalt surface and the base layer remain intact. This is possible because it is a purely surface marking. Extensive road repairs are therefore not necessary. The process is relatively new and has only been in use in Germany for around four years.
Vibrations and noises as warning signals
The rumble strips applied across the road produce clearly audible noises and vibrations when driven over. According to the Schmalkalden-Meiningen district office, it is precisely these effects that are intended to encourage motorcyclists and car drivers to reduce their speed. The measure is aimed in particular at those who use the winding road for illegal racing or excessive speeds. The affected sections include the area behind the roundabout in the direction of Zella-Mehlis and the so-called Sternengrundkurve.
Focus on motorcyclists – without banning them
Even though the measure has been met with some harsh criticism on social media, the authorities emphasize that the road will remain accessible to motorcyclists. The strips are designed in such a way that they “are in no way intended to detract from the enjoyment of driving on the road,” according to the district administration. Rather, the aim is to target precisely those areas where accidents have repeatedly occurred – and where excessive speed has been proven to play a role.
Criticism has focused primarily on the effectiveness and durability of the markings. Some users describe the measure as a “joke,” while others are even calling for its removal. There are also doubts as to whether the rumble strips will survive the winter. According to Annett Frech, head of department at the Thuringian State Office for Construction and Transport, however, the material is designed in such a way that it can be driven over by winter road maintenance vehicles without being damaged. The durability is stated as a minimum of two and a maximum of four years.
Experience from other federal states gives cause for optimism
Previous experience with rumble strips in Baden-Württemberg, Lower Saxony, and the Harz region indicates that such measures can actually contribute to reducing the number of accidents. Whether this will also be successful in southern Thuringia will be reviewed next year. The route will continue to be monitored until then, so an evaluation of the measure is still pending.
Not a definitive solution, but a possible step toward mitigation
The introduction of rumble strips is part of a package of measures aimed at ensuring safe use of the popular route. After increased police checks failed to achieve the desired effect, the accident commission was convened and decided on this structural intervention. Despite the criticism, it remains to be seen how the measure will prove itself in practice – a final assessment is not yet possible.
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