Safe speed: promoting safe walking and cycling by reducing traffic speed
Australia's urban speed limit is high by international standards. High vehicle speeds not only cause serious injury and death on our roads, but also act as a barrier to pursuing active travel options, such as walking and cycling.
In response, the Safe Speed Interest Group (SSIG) commissioned a study to look at the relationship between speed limit and the level of walking and cycling. The SSIG is a collaborative group including the Heart Foundation, local government, community health centre and University. The attached document contains the findings of the study and the evidence to support the relationship between vehicle speed and active transport.
Overall, the study indicated that lower traffic speed in urban areas will improve pedestrian and cyclist safety, leading to a likely increase in rates of walking and cycling, and noted that the lack of definitive evidence should not stand in the way of local and state governments from taking proactive action in this area.
The full report and 2-page summary are available for download and can also be accessed from the Heart Foundation website.
