Proposal for point-to-point speed cameras on the Peak Downs Highway

A road safety advocacy group is pushing for point-to-point speed cameras on the Peak Down Highway.

Point to point speed cameras on the Peak Downs Highway may soon be a reality for commuters. Picture: Zizi Averill

Point-to-point speed cameras have been suggested as a means to decrease traffic crashes on the Peak Downs Highway.

The Road Action and Accident Group has been pushing for the cameras, alongside other measures, to improve safety on the notorious highway.

RAAG spokesman Graeme Ransley said the group was focused on reducing serious injuries as well as fatalities.

While fatalities often made the headlines, Mr Ransley said for every fatal crash there were 16 to 18 serious injuries on the roads.

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“We have substantial evidence that point-to-point cameras reduce road crashes,” Mr Ransley said.

“When they were installed on the Newell Highway coming into Queensland from the south, there was a dramatic decrease in crashes causing serious injuries or death.”

Mr Ransley said the group had been advocating for the cameras for the past 10 years and was in the process of involving the local police and politicians.

“We want the community to know this is not a revenue making scheme,” he said.

“The legislation is built to ensure the revenue goes straight back into road safety.”

Mr Ransley said one of the key reasons the Peak Downs Highway was so dangerous was the lack of overtaking lanes between Nebo and Moranbah.

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“Many people don’t allow enough time in their journey along the highway,” Mr Ransley said.

“When they get stuck behind wide loads and have to drive slower they end up running late and speeding.

“Often they end up on the wrong side of double lines.”

Mr Ransley said a push for overtaking lanes was also high on the group’s agenda.

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