August road user safety focus: vulnerable road users

ACT Policing protecting vulnerable road users in November

This month, the joint road safety campaign between ACT Policing and the Justice and Community Safety Directorate will focus on awareness of vulnerable road users.

Children, pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists do not have the same protection as a car during a collision, making them more vulnerable.

Officer in Charge of Traffic Operations, Station Sergeant David Wills said drivers should always be mindful of sharing the road, and take extra care around vulnerable road users.

“Even a minor collision between a car and a vulnerable road user can cause serious injuries, even death,” Station Sergeant Wills said.

“I would urge all road users to be alert on Canberra roads, and be mindful of vulnerable road users, including children in and around 40km/h school zones.

“I would also like to remind drivers that when they pass a bicycle to ensure there is a sufficient distance between their vehicle and bicycle rider. 

“Drivers are required to leave at least 1m between the closest part of their vehicle and the closest part of the bicycle rider if the vehicle is travelling at not more than 60km/h, and at least 1.5m if the vehicle is travelling at faster than 60km/h.

“The road is there to be shared, and it is important for all road users to obey all road rules and regulations – they are there to ensure everyone’s safety.”

This campaign forms part of the ACT Road Safety Strategy 2011-2020 which prioritises a Vision Zero approach to road safety.

Media enquiries

Police Media — (02) 6264 9460, act-police-media@afp.gov.au

 

Quick Exit