Tram-vehicle accidents on a decline due to implemented 'separation curbs'
Melbourne, Australia, is taking steps to improve tram safety in its bustling CBD by installing raised separation kerbing along major routes. This safety measure aims to reduce vehicle-to-tram collisions by physically separating tram lanes from vehicle lanes, preventing vehicles from encroaching on tram paths.
Raised kerbing acts as a physical barrier, improving safety by minimizing vehicle intrusion into tram paths, thus reducing collision risks. Although exact crash reduction statistics for Melbourne’s CBD are not directly cited, similar safety projects show positive safety impacts [1][2].
In 2022, implementation occurred along tram routes like Route 86 and corridors including Kerferd Road, as part of coordinated transport infrastructure upgrades aimed at enhancing tram stop safety and integrating safer cycling facilities [1][2]. The City of Port Phillip also developed plans for protected bike lanes with raised separation along corridors such as Kerferd Road, which indirectly improves tram safety by better organizing vehicle traffic and reducing interactions with tram tracks [1].
The City of Melbourne plans to lay an additional five kilometres of separation kerbing along Latrobe, Flinders, Swanston, Spring, Market, and Spencer streets between August and November 2022. This initiative is part of broader urban transport and safety reforms to improve modal separation and protect vulnerable road users around Melbourne’s trams.
Sudden braking in collisions can result in passenger injuries, particularly if they're not seated or holding onto a safety rail. Motorists should avoid driving on tram tracks where possible, except to avoid obstacles or make a legal right turn. If turning onto tram tracks, motorists should wait until they're 50 meters from the turn before crossing onto the tracks.
In 2021, there were 673 vehicle-to-tram incidents, a 15% increase from 2020 (583 incidents). It is important for motorists to learn how to drive safely around trams, and RACV Drive School offers training. Motorists should always give way to oncoming trams, even at roundabouts and hook turn-only intersections. At tram stops where passengers board or alight directly from the road, motorists must come to a halt behind the tram, allow all passengers to board and alight, and wait until the doors close before continuing.
In 2021, separation kerbing was installed on Bourke, Collins, and Elizabeth streets in Melbourne's CBD, resulting in an approximate 30% reduction in vehicle-to-tram collisions. RACV Head of Policy James Williams states that Melburnian motorists need to be mindful of trams, pedestrians, cyclists, and e-scooter users in the CBD.
Melburnians complete over 200 million tram journeys annually, making it crucial to ensure the safety of both tram passengers and motorists. By implementing measures such as raised separation kerbing, the city aims to create a safer and more efficient transportation system for all users.
The City of Melbourne plans to install raised separation kerbing on major tram routes to minimize vehicle intrusion and reduce the risk of vehicle-to-tram collisions, such as on Latrobe, Flinders, Swanston, Spring, Market, and Spencer streets. To create a safer and more efficient transportation system in Melbourne, it's essential for the public-transit industry to collaborate with the finance sector on funding projects that enhance transportation safety, including cycling facilities and tram stop safety improvements.
