New guidance for lowering speed limits

Overview

Action 3.4: Review and update the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Part 4, to improve provisions for setting appropriate speed limits in areas frequented by vulnerable road users, including cyclists.

Lead agency: Department of Transport and Main Roads

Status: Complete

Achievements

Setting speed limits in areas of high pedestrian or cyclist activity is now better informed with the release of an update to the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Part 4: Speed controls (MUTCD Part 4) on 30 November 2018.

The update was produced by the department, through extensive research and consultation with key stakeholders. It provides a simpler and clearer evidence-based guide for setting speed limits in areas of high pedestrian or cyclist activity.

We have completed 9 training sessions across the state for road safety practitioners in the department, local governments and engineering consulting firms. The training sessions included a step-by-step demonstration of the new speed limit review process and discussion on the changes to the MUTCD Part 4.

Next steps

We will continue to support road authorities to implement appropriate speed limits through business as usual activities.