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Mad March is synonymous with festivities and an increase in foot traffic in the CBD, prompting RAA to urge pedestrians to take care when having fun.
This includes not just those on foot but all road users obeying the rules, RAA says.
Tragically, 66 pedestrians have lost their lives on South Australian roads in the past five years according to police records, prompting an RAA plea for all road users to be vigilant and help reduce road trauma.
Despite their vulnerability, latest police figures show 3321 pedestrians were fined more than $380,000 for stepping out of line and another 4393 received a caution between 2016 and 2020.
During the same time, 19,478 motorists were caught on fixed safety cameras and fined more than $10 million for running red lights at pedestrian crossings.
RAA road safety spokesman Charles Mountain said road users ran a greater risk than a fine if they flout the rules.
Sadly already two more pedestrians have lost their lives this year.
“All road users – pedestrians and drivers – have a responsibility to look out for each other and ensure everyone arrives at their destination safely,’’ he said.
‘So if you’re a pedestrian, please be mindful of the road environment and only cross where its safe and motorists, slow down and watch out for pedestrians, particularly when driving near popular venues.’’
Mr Mountain said previous RAA research of pedestrian casualty crashes showed among the most dangerous locations were the Hindley and Hutt Street entertainment strips, the northern end of King William Street, outside the Adelaide Railway station and the public transport bus corridor of Currie and Grenfell streets.
“Many pedestrian collisions are in and around the city centre, where we have large pedestrian numbers and people are often not crossing at the designated location,’’ he said.
“According to police records, many pedestrian fines and cautions were also issued between 10pm Saturday night and 1am Sunday morning.’’
Mr Mountain warned road users of the dangers of distraction caused by electronic devices, including mobiles phones, and the prevalence of e-scooter riders.
“This is particularly important to remember during the festivities, as many more people are out and about and attending events, which often involve alcohol,” he said.
“E-scooter riders need to remember they must wear helmets and give way to pedestrians, and are restricted to footpaths while also being restricted to the same alcohol limits as motorists’’.