Tram-vehicle accidents on a decline due to implemented separation barriers
In the bustling city of Melbourne, trams are a popular and essential form of public transport, with over 200 million journeys completed every year [1]. With such a significant presence on the roads, it's crucial for motorists to understand and follow the rules designed to ensure the safety of both tram passengers and drivers.
Firstly, motorists should always stay alert when driving on or next to tram tracks. Pedestrians may suddenly dart in front of traffic to avoid missing trams, so it's essential to maintain a high level of vigilance [2].
When a tram stops without a safety zone, drivers must stop behind it and wait until the tram doors close and all passengers have safely crossed before proceeding. Failure to comply with this rule results in a fine of $462 and 3 demerit points [3]. It's important to note that trams have priority, and drivers must always stop when tram doors are open to allow passengers to board or alight safely [3].
At hook turn-only intersections, motorists should not block tram tracks when making a right turn. Trams have the right of way, and motorists should always give way to oncoming trams, including at roundabouts, U-turns, and hook turn-only intersections [2].
The Victorian Government is taking steps to improve tram safety and accessibility. Separation kerbing, a physical barrier between motor vehicles and trams, has been installed along various streets in Melbourne's CBD, helping reduce vehicle-to-tram collisions by 30% [4]. In August 2022, an additional five kilometres of kerbing will be laid along Latrobe, Flinders, Swanston, Spring, Market, and Spencer streets.
Trams cannot swerve like cars, buses, or trucks, so if a vehicle crosses into the path of an oncoming tram, the only option tram drivers can take is to brake. This can potentially lead to injuries for passengers onboard the tram. To minimise these risks, motorists should always give way to trams and drive safely around them [5].
In 2021, there were 673 vehicle-to-tram incidents, representing a 15% increase on 2020 figures (583 incidents) [6]. These incidents underscore the importance of adhering to the rules and staying alert when driving near trams.
For those learning to drive, the RACV Drive School offers driving lessons to help drivers understand and follow these rules. By driving safely around trams, we can all contribute to a safer and more efficient shared traffic environment in Melbourne.
References:
[1] Public Transport Victoria. (n.d.). Trams. Retrieved from https://ptv.vic.gov.au/trams
[2] Victorian Government. (n.d.). Road rules for driving around trams. Retrieved from https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/driving/rules-of-the-road/right-of-way/road-rules-for-driving-around-trams
[3] Victorian Government. (n.d.). Road rules for tram stops. Retrieved from https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/driving/rules-of-the-road/right-of-way/road-rules-for-tram-stops
[4] Victorian Government. (n.d.). Making our roads safer for trams. Retrieved from https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/road-safety-campaigns/making-our-roads-safer-for-trams
[5] Victorian Government. (n.d.). Road rules for hook turns. Retrieved from https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/driving/rules-of-the-road/right-of-way/road-rules-for-hook-turns
[6] Victorian Government. (n.d.). Reducing tram collisions. Retrieved from https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/road-safety-campaigns/reducing-tram-collisions
- In Melborne's bustling cityscape, the transportation sector, including the finance industry, plays a crucial role in funding and maintaining the essential public transport system, such as trams.
- To support the financial growth and efficiency of the industry, it is essential that drivers follow the safety rules while driving around trams, contributing to a safer and more efficient shared traffic environment, ultimately benefiting both the transportation sector and the finance industry.
