ACT Policing has reminded road users of their obligations in shared zones where cyclists and pedestrians also have rights on the roadway.
As part of the 2018-2019 Road Safety Calendar, shared zones will get special attention from police throughout March.
Officer in Charge of Traffic Operations at ACT Policing, Acting Station Sergeant David Wills said it was important for road users to know the road rules when travelling in shared zones.
“The most important thing to remember is that motorists must give way to pedestrians,” Acting Station Sergeant Wills said.
“Shared zones are signposted, and will often have a different look and feel to a normal road environment. While all road users should be mindful of one another, it is especially important for people operating a vehicle to be aware of vulnerable road users in these areas.”
He also reminded road users that slow speed limits of 10 to 20 km/h applied in shared zones across the ACT.
Some other features of shared zones in the ACT included no formal pedestrian crossings; raised entry points at each end of the shared zone to show a changed traffic environment; additional kerb ramps to improve access for people with mobility impairment, as well as pedestrians and cyclists, and a road pavement raised to footpath level at intersections.
The initiative forms part of the ACT Road Safety Strategy 2011-2020 which prioritises a Vision Zero approach to road safety.
