Safer speed for Tapleys Hill Road

Friday, 17 May 2024

Drivers travelling along Tapleys Hill Road will have a safer commute thanks to a reduced speed limit following concerns raised by the local community.

The speed limit, which will be lowered from 80km/h to 60km/h between Africaine Road and Sir Donald Bradman Drive will help improve safety for drivers and pedestrians along the three-kilometre stretch.

The busy thoroughfare is the main arterial route connecting Adelaide’s north and south with an average traffic volume of 50,000 vehicles a day, including 2,000 heavy vehicles. Between 2018 and 2022 there were 118 crashes recorded which resulted in 42 injuries. Tragically, there have been three fatalities along this section of road since 2003.

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport along with the RAA conducted a review into the speed limit along this section of Tapleys Hill Road following concerns raised by the local community.

Traffic modelling found that a reduced speed limit would not impact the overall travel time for motorists but would reduce the risk of death or serious injury in the event of a crash.

By reducing the speed limit driver reaction time is improved, minimising the severity of a crash should it occur. The review also found that vehicles were already travelling at 60km/h during the morning and evening weekday peaks.

The new speed limit will be introduced on 31 May 2024, with motorists asked to pay attention to the signs in place showing the change.

To learn more about these changes visit www.thinkroadsafety.sa.gov.au