Speed bumps – for cyclists: Park is forced to install roadblocks to slow down cyclists
- Speed bumps for cyclists installed as part of a trial at Apex Park, in Perth’s south
- Main aim of the trial is to change behaviour of cyclists as well as improve safety
- The City of Melville Council, in Perth’s south, commenced the trial on March 4
In an attempt to slow down cyclists with a need for speed, a local council has recently installed temporary roadblocks in a popular park.
City of Melville Council, in Perth‘s south, introduced a number of speed humps through the highly utilised riverside Apex Park following extensive community consultation.
After factoring in feedback, the local council is trialling the speed bumps following a number of crashes involving bike riders and pedestrians.
Mayor George Gear told Perth Now slow-down signs and similar informative campaigns had failed previously.
Speed bumps have been installed by a local council as part of a trial in Perth’s south to slow down cyclists using the shared path in Apex Park
‘We have trialled lots of ways to slow faster path users and improve safety, including installing Your Everyday Speed (YES) signs, painted messages and information campaigns, but more is needed to change behaviour and improve safety,’ the Mayor said.
‘The location at Apex Park was selected for the trial because of the limited sight lines, high speed path users interacting with slower path users, high volumes of pedestrians and bike riders and a history of previous incidents.
‘Our aim is to provide shared spaces where all users – including pedestrians, beginner bicycle riders and more advanced bicycle riders – feel safe and supported.’
To the frustration of many motorists, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other road users – despite not having to pay vehicle registration.
Across Australia, helmets are mandatory at all times for cyclists, who must obey the road rules.
Off the road, cyclists and pedestrians often occupy public community spaces on shared paths.
According to Transport for NSW, shared paths should always see cyclists keep left, travel at a safe speed and be careful around young children and dogs, as they can be unpredictable in their movements.
A study conducted by Monash University revealed pedestrian injuries resulting from collisions with cyclists are rare.
Where collisions did occur, they were more likely to be in denser, inner urban areas.
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