Gold Coast trams: Incredible video shows risks taken by drivers, cyclists and pedestrians
Incredible video has been released showing drivers, cyclists and pedestrians taking mind-blowing risks around Gold Coast trams. SEE THE VIDEO
Transport
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Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians have been involved in hair-raising near misses with Gold Coast trams after making some bizarre and dangerous moves.
In extraordinary footage released by operator GoldlinQ, cars can be seen performing illegal u-turns in front of moving trams and cutting off the bright yellow vehicles with just millimetres to spare.
One car is seen driving along tracks on a viaduct near G:Link’s Southport depot, some distance from the nearest public road.
Pedestrians are also seen putting themselves at risk, stumbling and falling on platforms as they rush to catch departing G:link trams, and in one case even tumbling head-first through a carriage door.
A number of bicycle riders, meanwhile, have the vigilance of tram drivers to thank for escaping intact after a series of incidents where they are seen cycling straight into the path of the vehicles.
All of the incidents shown took place since January.
GoldlinQ spokesperson Lucy Ardern said the videos showed what not to do when on and around a tram.
“G:link drivers need to be alert every day to passengers, pedestrians, motorists and bike riders taking dangerous risks,” she said.
“They do an outstanding job anticipating dangers but there are instances where the emergency brakes need to be applied.”
Ms Ardern said people needed to remember that unlike other vehicles, trams cannot swerve to avoid obstacles.
Because of their weight, they also take time to come to a complete halt – a tram travelling at 60km/h takes 42.5 metres to stop, which is the length of nine cars.
She also reminded pedestrians to pay attention and not be distracted by mobile phones and other devices.
“It is also about being aware of your surroundings when you are on board and around trams,” she said.
“Don’t risk a slip, trip or fall on a tram, and if you are a road user, remember that tracks are for trams.”
Goldlinq said there were an average of 22 incidents reported every quarter where the emergency brake needs to be used to stop the tram from hitting a pedestrian or road vehicle.
An average of 11 slips, trips and fall incidents are also reported.
The videos were released by GoldlinQ ahead of Rail Safety Week, which runs from 7-13 August.
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