Take care and be bus aware this Bus Safety Week

Transport for NSW is reminding all road users to be bus aware, for the eighth annual Bus Safety Week. 

Transport For NSW Deputy Secretary Safety, Environment and Regulation, Tara McCarthy said it is important everyone works together to keep safe on our roads. 

“Compared to a car, buses require more time to stop, when travelling at 80km/h, it takes a bus about 30 metres further than a car to come to a complete stop, so please remember to give them plenty of space,” Ms McCarthy said.

“Motorists and pedestrians should remember that taking risks around buses not only puts your safety at risk, but can also impact a bus full of people, who may be injured if the bus needs to brake harshly to avoid a collision.”

“Passengers also have an important role to play in keeping safe, and should remember to hold on to the rail when getting on or off the bus and if standing, don’t move around the bus when it’s moving.”

Ms McCarthy reminded everyone to take extra care when walking to the bus and to ensure they allow plenty of time to get to the bus stop 

“Don’t rush for the bus - everyone  should remember when walking on or near the road, always stay alert and follow signs and signals. If disembarking from a bus, wait for the bus to go then find a safe place to cross the road.”

“If you are driving or riding, give way to merging buses, in accordance with NSW Road Rules. Be aware that buses have larger blind spots than some other vehicles – don’t assume the driver can see you.

“When driving near a bus with flashing lights, please slow down to 40km/h, unless a lower speed applies and be aware of passengers who may be getting on and off the bus.”

Bus Safety Week runs from 20 to 26 February. For more information, visit facebook.com/nswroadsafety or bebusaware.com.au