Road safety reminder: pedestrians give way

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River is reminding pedestrians to give way to motor vehicles at informal pedestrian crossings in Margaret River and Cowaramup.

The reminder comes as part of a push to improve the safety of pedestrians and road users alike in the Shire’s town centres.

Shire Manager Asset Services David Nicholson said it was important people followed the WA road rules by giving way to vehicles at these informal crossings.

“Informal crossings in town centres are a traffic calming measure, encouraging motorists to reduce speed and encouraging pedestrians to cross at specific locations,” he said.

“While pedestrians don’t have right of way at informal crossings, they are strategically located and constructed to provide good visibility and reduced crossing distances, which is particularly helpful for people with mobility difficulties.”

Informal crossings are provided as an alternative to traffic lights and zebra crossings, which cannot be installed in Cowaramup and Margaret River as the town centres do not meet the minimum required pedestrian and/or vehicles numbers – as mandated by Main Roads WA.

Mr Nicholson said an independent road safety assessment completed in June 2020 for the Cowaramup crossing recommended additional signage for pedestrians and motorists, which has been implemented.

“Pedestrian warning signage is also planned for the informal crossings in Margaret River as a component of a broader suite of parking and wayfinding signage throughout the town centre,” he said.

“Traffic moves slowly through these areas, but it’s important everyone still knows and abides by the rules.”

The Shire is also in dialogue with Main Roads WA about lowering speed limits in the Margaret River, Cowaramup and Witchcliffe town centres. 

For more information or to arrange a photo opportunity, please contact the Shire’s media team at [email protected]