The Hume Highway in the south-west of NSW expects additional signs to be installed, warning motorists of steep gradients to improve safety for motorists.
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Following feedback from heavy vehicle operators and a safety review at several locations between Holbrook and Yass, the signs are being installed due to there being an alarming number of rear-end collisions involving heavy vehicles recently.
Transport for NSW regional director Martin Cocca says steep gradient signs will be placed northbound and southbound at six key locations to provide clearer warnings about steep inclines where drivers may encounter slow-moving heavy vehicles.
“After receiving feedback from heavy vehicle drivers and analysing crash data, we’ve identified six priority locations where additional signs will significantly improve safety for all road users,” he says.
“The signs will alert drivers approaching steep gradients, warn of potentially slow-moving heavy vehicles, and provide guidance on safely merging with traffic in these sections of the highway.”
The signs will be installed at Aeroplane Hill at Kyeamba Gap, Wagga Wagga Hill near the Sturt Highway interchange, Muny Muny Hill north of Coolac, Steps and Stairs, north of Jugiong, Conroys Gap, south of Yass and Mundoonan Range, north of Yass.
Cocca says as larger heavy vehicle combinations become more common on Australia’s busiest freight corridor, the signs are a simple, cost-effective solution to an increasing problem.
“With freight volumes expected to increase by 26 per cent over the next 20 years, we’re seeing more larger combinations on our roads. These vehicles carry more weight and length, resulting in slower climbs on steep gradients,” he says.
“This sign will help give motorists more warning and guide them on how to safely share the road.”
As part of the Towards Zero Safer Roads Program, this project is being delivered to create sustainable and long-term reductions in road trauma through targeted infrastructure improvements and speed management treatments on existing road networks.
Work on signage installations is expected to begin within coming weeks and be completed by the end of the month, weather permitting.
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