Everyday light rail and tram drivers need to be alert to vehicle drivers, pedestrians, and bike riders taking dangerous risks. They might be doing u-turns, not looking, walking, driving or riding on tracks.
These incidents can cause the tram to brake suddenly resulting in passengers slipping or falling if they are not holding on.
Where the light rail or tram is sharing the roadway, passengers are being put at risk by vehicle drivers not stopping when the tram stops.
These incidents and near incidents can also impact the tram and light rail driver and recovery staff, causing trauma and work-related stress. Watch the sort of incidents light rail and tram drivers need to deal with each day.
Top tram and light rail safety tips
- Know and obey the rules when you are using the road around the tram and light rail corridor
- Stay alert and aware of your surroundings – trams can be quiet and unable to stop quickly or easily
- Always follow traffic signals and signs
- When crossing the tracks on a bicycle, in a wheelchair, or with a pram, keep your whels at right angles ot the track so that they don’t get stuck in the track
- Pedestrians should cross at designated crossings and intersections where available, and always look both ways. When one tram has passed, be aware that another tram may be passing behind it in the opposite direction.
- When on board, sit down if seats are available. If standing hold onto a pole, hand rail or strap.
Pedestrians
- Take extra care around trams and tram tracks – remember trams can’t always see you
- Don’t cross directly behind a tram as other road users may not be able to see you
- Cross at designated pedestrian crossings where available
- Don’t be distracted by mobile phones, and remove headphones before crossing the road
- Always look left and right, and check twice for trams before you cross the road.
Bicycle riders
- Take extra care around trams and tram tracks – remember trams can’t always see you
- If you need to ride across tram tracks, keep your wheels at right angles to the track so that they don’t get stuck in the track
- Make yourself visible by wearing bright, light or reflective clothing
- Look out for other road users, particularly in shared zones or on shared paths, and avoid making sudden movements
- Give hand signals when changing lanes, or turning left or right
- Always follow the road rules, including traffic signals, and ride with care.
Drivers and motorcycle riders
- Never queue across tram tracks or intersections
- Always follow traffic signals and signs
- Never turn in front of a tram
- Always follow the road rules and drive or ride with care.
For more information:
- Watch the Australasian Railway Association webinar for a discussion about light rail safety in Rail Safety Week 2021
- Visit your state department of transport or light rail or tram operator.