Frequently asked questions - Speed limits save lives
Frequently asked questions about speed and speeding and the Victorian Government's initiatives to reduce speeds on Victorian roads.
Why are 50km/h speed limits installed in rural and outer metro towns?
Lower speed limits are installed in town centres which have a poor crash record and/or a high level of pedestrian activity.
What is the main benefit of the lower speed limit?
Lower speed limits make the road environment safer for everyone, in particular vulnerable road users like pedestrians. Research shows that small reductions in vehicle speeds dramatically increase the chance of a pedestrian surviving a crash. A pedestrian who is struck by a car travelling at 60 km/h has little chance of survival. At 50 km/h the chance of survival is 60 per cent.
How large is the pedestrian crash problem in Victoria?
Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, comprising around 14 per cent of deaths and 10 per cent of serious injuries on Victorian roads each year. In 2007, 41 pedestrians were killed.
What impact will the reduced speed limits have on travel times?
Due to the short distances of the reduced speed zones, the impact on travel time is expected to be minimal. Motorists are encouraged to be patient and obey the new speed limit in the interests of improving both driver and pedestrian safety.
What community consultation is being undertaken on this initiative?
The effectiveness of the 50km/h limit in town centres is being monitored. Community members are encouraged to provide feedback on the initiative following its implementation.
Will the reduced speed limits operate at all times?
The 50km/h speed limit in rural and outer metropolitan townships apply at all times. Clearly visible signs mark the beginning and end of the zones. Motorists are encouraged to look out for the signs and slow down in town.
How are sites selected?
Sites were selected on the basis of crash history and degree of pedestrian activity. In particular, sites targeted are main roads in town centres with a high level of pedestrian activity, such as those located near shopping, recreational and entertainment facilities.
How will motorists know when they are entering a 50km/h zone?
Clearly visible 50km/h signs will mark the start of the reduced speed zone.
How is this speed limit different to the default 50km/h that already exists in Victoria?
The 50km/h speed limit in town centres is applied to roads in town centres which normally attract a 60km/h limit. This speed limit is signed to ensure motorists are aware of the new speed limit. The 50 km/h default speed limit means that if there's no sign, it's 50 km/h. The default speed limit operates on roads in built up areas which are not marked with speed signs. Roads with higher speed limits are signed.
Will Victoria Police be enforcing the lower speed limits?
The lower 50km/h speed zone in rural and outer metropolitan townships is just like any other speed limit on Victorian roads and will be enforced by Police.
What is the penalty for not obeying the speed limit?
The penalty is the same for any other speeding infringement on Victorian roads.
