A Call for Safer Roads in Victoria
A parliamentary inquiry has made over 50 recommendations to improve road safety for vulnerable users, including pedestrians and cyclists. This comes after Victorians reported feeling unsafe around roads due to issues like narrow footpaths, short pedestrian crossing times, and poor driver behavior.
The inquiry found that the number of pedestrians, passengers, and motorbike riders killed on Victorian roads has increased since before the pandemic, while driver fatalities have fallen. This, combined with anecdotal reports of increased driver aggression and risk-taking, has led to calls for a review of speed zones and a prioritization of vulnerable users in road design.
One resident, Cate Hall, has been lobbying for years to reduce the speed limit on Murray Road in Coburg. She describes the road as having a "racetrack vibe" with heavy traffic and narrow footpaths, making it dangerous for pedestrians. She hopes the inquiry will lead to a speed reduction and other safety improvements.
In Pakenham, residents feel unsafe walking due to the lack of footpaths along busy roads like the Princes Highway. Jessi Barnard, a local parent, says nothing has changed to make the roads safer for pedestrians and cyclists since 2022.
Sarah Connolly, a Labor MP in Truganina, has also been advocating for improved safety on Leakes Road, a busy arterial road near a school. Mobile cameras and additional signs were recently introduced after concerns about drivers running red lights and speeding.
Victoria Walks, an advocacy group, welcomes the inquiry's report and emphasizes the need to address both bad road design and poor driver behavior to encourage more people to walk safely.
The government has stated that it is considering the recommendations and will respond in due course.