Depending on your point of view, there first came a time when policemen decided that the new species of motorist was something they were entitled to attack, or when society woke up to the fact that the new-fangled traffic mode of motor vehicle was going to have a huge impact (literally) on pedestrians going about their lawful business.

This poster comes from the city of Hamburg, as long ago as 1841. A translation follows:

Police Notice

Against Speeding

Since a number of accidents have recently occurred as a result of fast driving, the office designated below finds itself impelled to issue a reminder of the order of 28 November 1825 in paragraph 10, according to which the fast driving of vehicles, particularly around the corners of the streets, is completely forbidden, and the offenders are to be served with sentences of fines or prison, according to the severity of their offence. Police officials are to keep a sharp watch for any offenders, and to bring them to book immediately.

Hamburg, 19 October 1841

The Office of Police

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Early speed traps

Police Notice

Against Speeding