visit raa.com.au
Peak-hour travel times could blow out by up to 96% on some key main roads this week as more than 280,000 South Australian children return to school.
An RAA study has revealed weekday peak hour travel times could increase by an average of four minutes, prompting a warning to motorists to brace for heavier traffic flows and plan accordingly.
This study compared travel time data from the last four weeks of term 1, to the first week of school holidays (excluding Good Friday) and looked at four arterial road segments, each about 3km in length, including along Main North Road, Grange Road, Unley Road and Portrush Road.
The busiest time of day on these four segments typically coincides with school drop off or pick up, around 8:30am, and 3:30pm.
Afternoon peak travel times along Portrush Road, between Greenhill Road and Magill Road can be nearly double the travel times experienced during school holidays.
RAA Senior Manager Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain said drivers can avoid these busy periods by leaving earlier – and also encouraged using public transport where possible.
“With more than a quarter of a million students returning to school tomorrow, our roads are going to be much busier than the last couple of weeks,” Mr Mountain said.
“While it’s easy to become accustomed to the improved travel times during school holidays, commuters can be shocked as traffic returns to normal levels.
“The morning peak can be particularly heavy – as school drop-off coincides with the commute to work.
“Traffic is typically heaviest between 8:00am-9:00am so consider leaving before 7:30am if possible, to avoid these delays.
“Where feasible, RAA recommends using public transport or cycling to help decrease traffic on our roads. Less congested roads will help improve road safety, economic productivity and ultimately make South Australia more liveable.”
Mr Mountain also urged drivers to slow down around school zones – and be aware of pedestrians.
“Ensure you’re observing the 25km/h speed limit when students are present in school zones,” Mr Mountain said.
“These lower speed limits apply whenever children are present – whether that be during school times or outside of school hours.
“Drivers must also be aware that pedestrian crossings with traffic signals on major roads near schools will be in more frequent use across the school term.
“Children’s crossings will also be used more frequently at drop-off and pick-up times – so make sure you’re driving at the school zone or crossing speed limit, and in any case at a speed that will allow you to safely stop and allow pedestrians to cross.
“Be prepared to stop if the amber lights are flashing or the orange flags are out, or anytime a pedestrian is approaching the crossing.”
| RAA 101 Richmond Rd Mile End, South Australia, 5031Unsubscribe |