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Five Top Tips for Road Safety

As the holiday season winds down, many Queenslanders are back on the roads—dropping children off at school, heading back to work, or getting out for daily errands. This is the perfect time to think about road safety, especially for pedestrians with low vision or blindness.

Guide Dogs Queensland and Transurban are working together to raise awareness of road and roadside safety for all Queenslanders. A recent survey found that nearly 96% of people with low vision or blindness have experienced footpath issues in the past two years, with obstacles like e-scooters, shared paths, and crowd control barriers creating new challenges. Together, we can help ensure that our roads and public spaces remain accessible and safe for everyone.

Here are our Top Five Tips for Road Safety to help everyone get around safely, including pedestrians with low vision or blindness:

1. Keep Walkways Clear of Obstacles

Clear and unobstructed walkways are essential for the safety of pedestrians, especially those with low vision or blindness. Common obstacles such as parked bikes, scooters, wheelie bins, and construction materials can block paths and create hazards.  Help do your part in keeping our public walkways clear by avoiding leaving personal items like bags or bicycles on the footpath.

2. Be Mindful of Traffic Signals and Pedestrian Crossings

Accessible pedestrian signals—those that use sound or vibration—are essential for guiding individuals with low vision or blindness across busy intersections. These signals let pedestrians know when it is safe to cross, but it’s also important for road users to remain vigilant. When driving, always stop at pedestrian crossings and be mindful that not all pedestrians will be able to see you.

When these signals are functioning properly, it makes navigating streets safer for everyone. Be aware and patient around crossings, especially in areas where pedestrians may not have full visibility.

3. Respect Tactile Ground Surface Indicators

Tactile indicators—raised strips or textured ground markings—are designed to guide individuals with low vision or blindness across streets and open spaces. These features are typically found on sidewalks and crosswalks and are crucial for safe navigation. They should never be obstructed by objects like parked vehicles, construction materials, or debris.

If you see tactile markings on the ground, take care not to block them. As a road user, consider that these markings are not just decorative—they are vital for guiding pedestrians through busy environments.

4. Always Drive According to Conditions

When driving at night or in poor weather conditions, reduce your speed near crossings and be extra cautious. This ensures everyone, including pedestrians with low vision or blindness, can navigate safely and confidently.

5. Be Aware of Traffic and Vehicle Movements

Pedestrians with low vision or blindness rely heavily on sound cues, such as engine noise, to gauge the movement of traffic. However, they may not be able to see you waving them across the road or gauge the speed of oncoming vehicles. As a driver, it’s crucial to reduce speed near pedestrian crossings, especially in areas with high foot traffic or limited visibility.

Always make sure pedestrians can cross the road safely before proceeding. A moment of patience can prevent serious accidents.

Conclusion

By following these Top Five Tips for Road Safety, you can contribute to a safer, more inclusive community for all road users. Road safety should be a shared responsibility, and by being aware of how our actions impact others, we can help create a space where everyone—whether on foot, bike, or in a car—can move freely and safely.

Together with Transurban, let’s continue to raise awareness and work towards a more accessible and safer environment for all.