Setting Speed Limits in Queensland
In Queensland, speed limits are set in accordance with Part 4 of the Manual of
Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Setting speed
limits in accordance with Part 4 of the MUTCD will ensure that speed limits are
consistent and credible throughout the state. Main Roads and local governments
set speed limits on roads under their control in accordance with the guidelines
in Part 4 of the MUTCD. A number of factors and criteria are considered when
determining what an appropriate speed limit might be for a particular road.
These criteria include:
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environment in which the road is located;
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pavement, shoulder and lane width;
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horizontal and vertical road alignment;
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traffic volume, activity and prevailing speeds;
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frequency of intersections and property access;
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on-road parking activity;
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type of roadside activities;
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presence of unsignalised at-grade pedestrian crossings;
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presence of traffic signals;
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magnitude of property setback;
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presence of linemarking, channelisation and medians; and
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proximity of roadside hazards and standard of protection.
Speed limits are therefore determined after consideration of a number of safety
factors, not simply the standard or appearance of a road. The Speed Limit
Review software has been developed for
Transport and Main Roads by ARRB Group
to assist speed zoning practitioners in determining appropriate speed limits
for roads in Queensland. This software is available only to trained
professionals working for the Department of Main Roads and local governments
throughout Queensland.
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