Griffith City Council is embarking on a road safety campaign, aimed at urging road users to take care when driving around garbage trucks, particularly in the CBD.
A new television campaign was recently released demonstrating the dangers of driving around garbage trucks and runners, with council urging motorists to slow down and take care.
Waste operations manager, Mr John Roser said near misses with the garbage trucks and runners were causing concern, particularly in the laneways such as Banna Lane.
“There have been several incidences where drivers have not given way to the garbage trucks or slowed down when the runners are picking up and emptying the bins from the CBD,” said Mr Roser.
“This puts the truck operator, the runner and drivers at risk of serious injury so we are asking drivers to slow down, take care and give way to operators.”
While it can be frustrating to get stuck behind a garbage truck, it is important to drive with caution to prevent accidents.
“Garbage trucks do have to stop start frequently so I urge you to keep your distance, drive slowly and cautiously, keep a look out for our runners, and only overtake when it is safe to do so,” said Mr Roser.
“Our operators do their best to minimise disruptions but there will be times when traffic will be impeded.
“We want to make sure everyone remains safe and gets home at the end of the day – taking an extra couple of minutes to ensure you are being careful around our trucks will go a long way to ensuring yours – and our operators – safety,” he added.
Griffith Mayor, Councillor Doug Curran said road safety was everyone’s concern and we all had a responsibility to ensure the safety of ourselves and those around us.
“I understand we are all really busy and often in a hurry in the mornings but it is vital to slow down and take some extra time to make sure that you aren’t putting yourself or anyone else in danger,” said Councillor Curran.
“That extra minute or two could potentially save a life.”
