Safety plea for Showgoers to take care on roads
A jump in pedestrian deaths over the past nine months has prompted the RAA to encourage walkers to care during the Royal Adelaide Show.
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A dramatic jump in the number of pedestrian deaths has prompted a road safety plea as thousands take to the streets for the Royal Adelaide Show.
According to RAA data, 14 pedestrians have died on SA roads over the past nine months — compared with four for the same period last year.
Walking SA’s latest pedestrian safety report showed the show month of September recorded the second highest number of accidents involving walkers between 2013-17.
Data also showed Adelaide City and Unley councils were among the top 10 local government areas for pedestrians to get hit.
RAA senior road safety manager Charles Mountain urged motorists to be attentive as Showgoers, particularly young children, might be easily distracted.
“If you are a motorist travelling through the Royal Adelaide Show area, remain attentive and patient, and obey all traffic restrictions,” Mr Mountain said.
“Pedestrians, especially youngsters, may not be completely focused on the road if they’re excited and distracted by the Show, so it’s important for drivers to watch out for them and be extra cautious.
“Given the high turnover of vehicles using these areas, we would remind both motorists and pedestrians to keep a look out for each other.’’
Roads surrounding the Goodwood Rd showground will be reduced to 25km/h in an effort to protect road users.
Sections of Rose Tce and Leader St will become no-parking zones to help pedestrians enter safely.
SA Police chief inspector Matt Nairn said these speed limits would be strictly enforced.
“We know children of all ages are going to come to the Royal Adelaide Show and we know they are going to come across our roadways, so for us it is about the public stepping up, acknowledging that it’s a family event, 25km/h zones are there for a good reason,” Mr Nairn said.
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“We just want people to do the right thing and make it a very, very safe event.”
Walking SA board member Ian Radbone urged pedestrians to take care.
“Near the Showground there are safe crossings at the lights, and they are important to use with the high number of cars,” he said.
Royal Adelaide Show general manager Michelle Hocking encouraged Showgoers to take advantage of public transport.
The Royal Adelaide Show runs until September 8.