Aussie drivers are being urged to watch for variable speed limits on highways as electronic signs roll out at high-speed rural intersections across the country (Picture).
The sensor-activated signs, or ‘side road activated signs (SRAS)’, are designed to improve safety and eliminate the risk of a crash when vehicles enter or exit the highway from a side road.
They’re already in place across Victoria and South Australia, with Western Australia now adding the high-tech safety measure at three main intersections on Wilman Wadandi Highway, Great Eastern Highway and Indian Ocean Drive.
RAC WA reminded motorists this week to “slow down and follow the displayed speed limit”, which frequently changes to accommodate merging traffic.
The speed limit signs have been installed on the main highway and are triggered by vehicle sensors on joining roads.
“When sensors detect a vehicle preparing to emerge from the side road or turn right into the side road, the electronic signs illuminate and display a temporarily reduced speed limit (e.g. 70 or 80km/h) on the main highway,” RAC WA explained.
The speed limit shown changes based on traffic entering the main road from a side street. (RAC WA)
According to Safe System Solutions, which helped implement the SRAS system, the speed limit can be temporarily reduced by up to 30km/h.
“When the sign is illuminated, the displayed limit is the legal speed limit on the main highway,” RAC WA reminded drivers.
“Normal speed limit signs on the far side of the intersection indicate where the usual highway speed limit resumes.
“By temporarily reducing the speed limit, drivers have more time to turn, and drivers travelling straight on the main highway have more time to react and slow down if a vehicle turns in front of them.”
Where in Australia are the high-tech speed limit signs used?
South Australia was the first state to trial the technology at four high-risk rural intersections between 2017 and 2018.
Following its own trials, Victoria began permanently installing the systems across the state in late 2023.
Side street electronic speed limit sign Hume Freeway, Tallarook
The high-tech signs began appearing in other states, including Victoria (pictured), in 2023. (Google Maps)
Now, the high-tech system has been expanded to more locations across the country as part of ongoing regional road safety upgrades.
It comes as some regional roads across the country are seeing speed limits permanently reduced, with improved safety in mind.
WA motorists question electronic speed sign system
In response to the road authority’s Facebook post, many Western Australian drivers questioned their function.
Some suggested a significant change in speed from 100km/h to 70km/h, for example, is unsafe and could “drastically increase” the risk of rear-end crashes.
“It’s completely unnecessary, if you can’t judge traffic going past at 110 and know when it’s safe to enter the highway, then you should not have your licence,” one argued.
Some others who’ve seen the signs reported they frequently activate when the side road is completely empty.
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