By Dominique Tassell
Locals have raised concerns about the new street signs in Warwick CBD, stating they are a danger and potentially contrary to Queensland road rules.
One local online stated that the transition to the new rules “hasn’t been thought out very well”.
Another said that the rest of the world seems to be transitioning away from cars in CBD areas, making SDRC seem “out of step” in comparison.
Concerns have been raised over safety issues, with one local stating that they personally think the way it is now is more dangerous than the shared zone.
“How long will it be until someone is hit by a vehicle because they don’t read the signs?”
In a recent information session, a SDRC staff member stated they were trying to make crossings uniform through Warwick, and in line with state guidelines.
However, locals have stated that when pedestrians see markings on the road, they assume it is a crossing.
“To have it as the reverse of this is counterintuitive and dangerous!”
Multiple locals have pointed out that these new rules also seem to, in their opinion, contradict Queensland road rules.
Local Simon Glen says that he believes motorists must give way to pedestrians when entering King Street from Palmerin Street according to these rules.
“If a car hits a pedestrian, even in a 40km/h zone, the pedestrian will be injured and may even die,” he said.
He stated that cars would be better off in this situation, so pedestrians “need the protection of the law”.
“This new signage is VERY, VERY wrong.”
He says that section of the road is one where people should be encouraged to use their legs and not their cars and be able to do so safely.
“If motorists are in too much of a hurry to give way to pedestrians, let them use the Cunningham Highway along Albion Street.”
Simon says these new signs are an affront to common sense.
He says an alternative for the current signs would be signs stating that “Pedestrians must give way to vehicles, so you can run them down. You can then sue them for the cost of panel beating for your car.”
Sharing the road with pedestrians according to the Department of Transport:
A pedestrian is someone who is walking or running, or using a:
• wheeled recreational device – such as rollerblades, skateboards, roller skates and foot scooters.
• personal mobility device – such as a rideable.
• motorised mobility device – such as wheelchairs, motorised mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs.
When driving or riding in Queensland, you must:
• give way to pedestrians on or entering children’s, pedestrian or marked foot crossings
• give way to pedestrians on or entering a road you’re turning into
• give way to pedestrians in a shared zone or slip lane
• travel at a speed allowing you to stop safely at a crossing if needed
• prepare to stop if you see another vehicle or bicycle stop, or slow down near a crossing.”
