Stay safe while enjoying more outdoor time

Since ACT lockdown restrictions eased last week, allowing people to spend more time outside, police are reminding the community to be more aware.

Police have already noticed more cyclists and pedestrians of all ages on Canberra’s streets and pathways.

A concern for ACT Road Policing is that lower traffic volumes can mean vulnerable road users may become complacent, which makes them more vulnerable.

Officer in Charge, ACT Road Policing, Acting Inspector Stephen Booth said quiet roads were not a reason for anyone not abide by the rules.

“It doesn’t matter if there’s one car on the road or one hundred cars - the road rules still apply,” Acting Inspector Booth said.

“Both yours and the safety of other road users is always essential, so when you are on the road keep an eye out as you always would. Our messages have not changed; obey the speed limits, don’t run red lights and be conscious of your surroundings.

“The message is the same for people exercising. Whether you’re walking, running, or riding, or outside with children that’s when you’re at your most vulnerable as a road user.

“We had a very sad cycling fatality on a shared path a few weeks ago, and we don’t want any more fatalities among our road users, so please take care of yourself. Look out for other road users on shared paths and on the roads.”

ACT Policing reminds everyone that 40km/h speed limits are now in place in all Canberra’s town centres and other areas with high pedestrian traffic levels as a measure to further protect vulnerable road users.

If you would like to report any road user behaviour to police, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Information can be provided anonymously.

Media enquiries

Police Media — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au