Counter-fatigue measures to help save lives

One thousand kilometres of Queensland’s main roads will be treated with audible linemarking as part of the Bligh Government’s commitment to reversing the increase in fatigue-related fatalities.

Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt said the $8 million program – part of the $235 million, five-year Safer Roads Sooner program – was aimed at keeping more Queensland motorists alive.

"Main Roads is committed to playing its part in the whole-of-government approach to tackling driver fatigue issues and audible linemarking is a practical, proven way to help prevent fatigue-related crashes," Mr Pitt said.

"The recent increase in fatigue-related crashes, particularly on key tourism and freight routes, has been alarming."

Mr Pitt said 65 people died in fatigue-related crashes on Queensland roads in 2007, representing 18.1 per cent of the state’s road toll.

"These fatigue statistics represent tragedies that could be avoided,” he said.

“This audible linemarking initiative is part of the range of measures the Bligh Government is taking to reducing our road toll to fewer than 300 this year.

"While driver behaviour is an overwhelming factor in fatigue-related crashes, Main Roads' improvements to the road environment will help make a difference."

Mr Pitt said the project was a significant investment that aimed to reduce the severity and frequency of fatigue-related crashes and the associated trauma of road incidents.

"Fatigue is a serious concern and the State Government is committed to addressing it through works such as these,” Mr Pitt said.

"Audible linemarking uses a series of closely spaced raised bumps, designed to create a continuous noise and vibration when driven on by a motor vehicle.

"The audible lines are made from a thermoplastic material and are a vital tool to help save lives on our roads.

"Audible linemarking is one of the most proven counter-fatigue measures around the world – it significantly reduces the frequency and severity of fatigue-related crashes.

"Queensland is now taking the lead in Australia with the sheer volume of audible linemarking we are installing around the state.

"It gives people the wake-up call they need to get back on the road, and is an early warning sign to take a break, revive and survive."

About 100 new locations have been identified for new audible linemarking treatments across all regions in Queensland, including sections of:

·the D'aguilar Highway and Cunningham Highway in southern Queensland

·the Bruce Highway and Flinders Highway in northern Queensland

·the Rockhampton–Yeppoon Road in central Queensland

·the Capricorn Highway on the Central Highlands

·the Roma–Mitchell Road in the south-west

·the Burnett Highway in the Wide Bay region.

"Main Roads performed a detailed analysis of all roads in Queensland to determine which should be treated as a priority," Mr Pitt said.

The areas selected were not only high fatigue-related crash sites, but also needed to meet various other requirements, including a posted speed limit of more than 80km/h and sealed shoulders with a width of at least 50cm so motorists have time to recover after being alerted to leaving the roadway.

Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3227 8819