Footage of bus crashes in Adelaide CBD released to raise awareness of traffic

Shocking footage of cars crashing into buses in Adelaide’s CBD has been released, highlighting the problem.

Confronting footage of terrifying collisions between cars and buses in Adelaide has been revealed by the state government in a bid to urge drivers to slow down around public transport.

The footage captured by on-board security cameras revealed three crashes between September to January.

The vehicles were seen ploughing into buses while attempting to change lanes.

Adelaide Metro bus driver Tenny Alex said the “rewarding” profession was equally demanding. Picture: Supplied

In one of the crashes a motorist cut off a bus as they merged left into a bus lane on Grenfell St, forcing the bus to suddenly brake.

A prescribed security officer on-board was violently flung towards the front of the bus as the driver abruptly halted.

Adelaide Metro bus driver Tenny Alex said the “rewarding” profession was equally demanding and required drivers to be constantly focused and aware.

“That’s why I’m always scanning ahead and trying to anticipate what’s happening around me,” Mr Alex said.

“Sometimes, smaller vehicles move into the space in front of us without realising we’ve left that gap for safety.

Motorists cutting in front of buses. Picture: Supplied

“It’s not just empty space – it’s part of how we keep everyone on board and on the road safe.”

Mr Alex urged motorists to give bus drivers enough room, when they see a bus indicating to leave a stop.

“We’re all just trying to get where we need to go safely, and sometimes a little patience goes a long way,” he said.

Motorists cutting in front of buses, moving quickly from the side and driving in blind spots, increase the change of a collision.

Larger buses, carrying up to 90 passengers and weighing over 25 tonnes, require more distance to properly stop. Picture: Supplied

Larger buses, carrying up to 90 passengers and weighing over 25 tonnes, require more distance to properly stop – sometimes more than 25 metres when travelling at a 60km/h.

Adelaide Metro vehicles are fitted with lane departure and blind spot detection, crash avoidance warning, and driver alerts for vulnerable road users.

The state government urged motorists to exercise caution and patience around buses by slowing down when they indicate to merge or avoid sudden braking or tailgating.