Melanie ter Horst from Amsterdam, alderman and portfolio holder for traffic, will look even more critically at the taxi exemptions for Amsterdam scheduled bus lanes. Research shows that on these runways, originally intended for scheduled buses, relatively many taxi accidents take place. 

Only stricter rules of conduct for taxi drivers can perhaps prevent this exemption from being completely jeopardized. The alderman is considering additional speed limits and a tightening of the rules of conduct on the scheduled bus lanes, such as entering and exiting the scheduled bus lane in the meantime and using the tram or bus lights.

cyclists

The alderman commissioned a study by the Foundation for Road Safety Research (SWOV) into the increase in taxi accidents. In 70 percent of the accidents involving a taxi, a cyclist, pedestrian or scooter crossed the bus lane. These striking results after the exemption has been granted may lead to the exemption being amended to guarantee safety. It is even possible that the exemption is withdrawn or adjusted if it appears that the conditions or restrictions have not been complied with.

Scheduled bus lanes are special lanes on the road reserved for the use of scheduled buses, which are buses that run on a set route and schedule. Scheduled bus lanes can be used to improve passenger transportation and reduce traffic flow by separating scheduled buses from other vehicles on the road. They can also be used to promote the use of public transport by reducing travel time and improving timetables.

Scheduled bus lanes are often marked with special paint or signage and are only accessible to scheduled buses and certain other vehicles, such as police and fire trucks. The use of scheduled bus lanes may be restricted to certain hours or days or may be prohibited altogether for certain vehicles or taxis, depending on local laws and traffic conditions.