In the hope of making a positive change, a resident has reported this recent incident. They wrote to us with this story:
DENVER, a young local resident, narrowly avoided a serious accident at the roundabout on the corner of Allenby and Old Cleveland Rd East. The near miss occurred as Denver was pushing his scooter across the intersection when a large SUV sped into the roundabout. Denver managed to jump out of the way just in time, but his scooter was crushed under the vehicle’s wheels. Although the driver did stop, he blamed Denver for the incident and drove away without providing any assistance or exchanging details, leaving Denver badly shaken and upset.
Denver’s parents, now deeply concerned about pedestrian safety, have since prohibited him from walking or scootering to school. They have opted to drive him or have him take the bus until he can drive himself.
This frightening experience has highlighted the dangers faced by pedestrians, particularly children, at local roundabouts. Denver’s mother, Lea, is advocating for immediate safety improvements. “I have personally witnessed the difficulties pedestrians face at these roundabouts. Mums with prams, young children, and seniors all struggle to cross safely,” she shared.
The intersection at Allenby and Old Cleveland Rd East is particularly busy during the morning and afternoon commute to school, with no pedestrian markings or lights to alert drivers to pedestrians crossing. Cars frequently bank across the pedestrian area, making it impossible for them to cross safely.
Lea has proposed two solutions to the Council, inspired by successful systems used overseas. She emphasises the need for pedestrian lines on the roads and the implementation of the Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) pedestrian crosswalk system, which has proven effective in Canada. The system features bright flashing lights that catch drivers’ attention without causing significant traffic disruption.
The incident has resonated with many in the community, recalling a recent petition launched after a teenager was struck on Cleveland Redland Bay Rd. Local councillors and residents alike are urging the Redland City Council and State Government to take action. As Lea poignantly stated, “We are lucky Denver is physically unharmed, though mentally we have all been badly shaken by this incident.”
