Police urge drivers to share the road

Drivers are being urged to share the road safely as ACT Policing promotes safety around vulnerable road users in the month of November.

Vulnerable road users are those who don’t benefit from the protection that a car or larger vehicle would provide in the event of a collision. This includes motorcyclists, cyclists, pedestrians and road side construction workers.

Traffic Officer In Charge Acting Station Sergeant Ken Hedges appealed to drivers to take care around more vulnerable road users.

“Whether you’re driving, riding or walking, the road rules exist to protect everyone’s safety. Motorists, motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians all have rights and responsibilities on the road,” Acting Station Sergeant Hedges said.

“However, it’s important to remember that cyclists, motorcycles and pedestrians don’t benefit from the protection a car provides during a collision. This means that even a small crash between a car and a cyclist, motorcyclist or pedestrian could result in serious injuries or death.”

Acting Station Sergeant Ken Hedges appealed to drivers to adhere to the reduced speed limits around roadworks.

“Roadside workers face the challenge of working in very close proximity to moving traffic. The reduced speed limits allow extra time for cars to stop, should something go wrong,” Acting Station Sergeant Hedges said.

“Even when workers aren’t around, reduced speed limited may be in effect for your own safety. Road works often involve changed traffic conditions, loose debris on the road, merging traffic or slimmer lanes. Slowing down helps drivers negotiate these conditions safely.”

“The message is simple, show courtesy and respect to all other road users – whether they’re driving, riding or walking.”

Media enquiries

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