Heart stopping vision of near misses between light rail vehicles and pedestrians, cyclists and private vehicles is a reminder to redouble rail safety.
The close calls released today are a reminder that doing the right thing around trams that weigh 85 tonnes each is a matter as serious as life and death.
Collisions and near misses have remained persistently high on the network, with eight collisions and 127 near misses in the first four months of the year across the Sydney and Parramatta Light Rail network, which includes the L1, L2, L3 and L4 lines.
The Minns Labor Government is urging passengers and pedestrians to prioritise their own safety by remaining alert, putting down phones, not rushing, and observing all road rules and pedestrian signs.
Every collision or near miss can stop trams, require an emergency response, cause delays and result in light rail vehicles being removed from service.
Sudden braking can put passengers on board at risk of injury, and these incidents can also be distressing for tram drivers.
Whether you are the driver of a vehicle, a pedestrian or cyclist, visit transportnsw.info/travel-info/safety-security/light-rail-safety for information on staying safe around light rail.
Minister for Transport John Graham said:
“These moments are hard to watch when the difference between a near miss and something much worse can be measured in centimetres and milliseconds.
“Light rail vehicles weigh the equivalent of 60 cars, they can’t swerve and they take time to come to a stop.
“Every one of these close calls is avoidable and we urge people to follow the road rules, remain alert, and not distracted by your phone.”
Coordinator General Howard Collins said:
“This footage should be a real wake-up call for people.
“We want everyone to understand that safe behaviour around light rail isn’t optional. Taking an extra moment to look, listen and obey signals can prevent injury.”
