A WARNING TO TAKE BUS SAFETY SERIOUSLY

Dramatic new vision has been released as authorities urge pedestrians, drivers and passengers to take safety around buses seriously. 

Minister for Transport Andrew Constance said the annual Bus Safety Week was an important reminder to everyone to remain alert and be careful across the road network.

 “We see some really dangerous behaviour around buses and it’s quite shocking to think people would put themselves and others at risk like that,” Mr Constance said.

“Fortunately bus crashes did drop during 2020, but we also had fewer people out and about. As everyone starts returning to work and coming back into our busier areas, we really need everyone to pay attention, be aware and stay alert.”

 Over the five-year period up to June 2020, a total of 34 people were killed in crashes involving buses in NSW. Of the 34 fatalities, 15 were pedestrians. During the same five-year period, 362 people were seriously injured in bus crashes including, 69 pedestrians and 18 bicycle riders.

The statistics show when it comes to crashes involving a bus, most fatalities and serious injuries occur in metropolitan areas. 

“This week is a reminder for pedestrians to find a safe place to cross the road, avoid walking in front of or behind a bus and don’t get distracted by your mobile phone,” Mr Constance said.

“We have to remember buses are big, heavy vehicles that can’t stop quickly. You only need to watch the latest CCTV to get a sense of how catastrophic the consequences can be.

“Even if a crash is avoided, it can cause serious injury to those on board the bus. 

“I also want to remind drivers to keep safe distances from school buses and when you see those flashing lights, slow down,” Mr Constance said.

“And if you’re on a bicycle or motorcycle you need to be aware of a bus’s blind spots because if you can’t see their mirrors, the bus driver can’t see you.” 

The sixth annual Bus Safety Week runs from 22 to 28 February.