Sharing the road with pedestrians

When driving in Queensland always be aware of pedestrians on or near roads.

Pedestrians are our most vulnerable road users because they have no protection if a vehicle collides with them. More than half of pedestrian fatalities occur in darkness or at dusk.

Pedestrians are people who use roads and paths to:

walk or run
push a bicycle
use a wheelchair
use a skateboard or foot scooter, rollerblades or roller skates
use a motorised mobility device

You must give way to pedestrians:

in shared zones
at pedestrian crossings
at children’s crossings
when turning at intersections
when doing a U-turn
when entering or leaving a driveway.

You must not enter a crossing or intersection if you cannot drive through it because the crossing or the road beyond is blocked. Always slow down and be prepared to stop if there’s any danger you may collide with a pedestrian for everyone's safety.

Sharing the road with children

Children have not developed the skills to understand and react to danger. They’re still learning where to cross safely, and they can find it hard to judge the speed and distance of vehicles.

Take extra care near:

children playing, walking or riding bikes near the edge of the road
schools, particularly when children are arriving or leaving
school buses or school bus zones where children may be getting on or off the bus.

Sharing the road with people using a motorised mobility device scooters and motorised wheelchairs

Drivers should look out for pedestrians using a motorised mobility device.

Sometimes a motorised mobility device needs to access the road if a path is not available. They will be travelling as close as possible to the left or right side of the road.

Take particular care when entering or leaving a driveway, as they can be difficult to see and may move faster than other pedestrians.

Sharing the road with people using skateboards, foot scooters and rollerblades

When driving, take care when you see people using skateboards, foot scooters, roller skates and rollerblades on the road. If the road is uneven or slippery, the person may be unstable on their feet.

Riders are allowed to use the road only if:

it's daylight
the speed limit is 50km/h or less
the road has no white dividing line or it’s a single-lane, one‑way street.

Sharing the road with older people or people with a disability

Older people and people with a disability may move slowly. They also may not see your vehicle until you’re very close. Slow down and give them extra time to cross.

Sharing the road with people affected by alcohol or drugs

People who have been drinking or taking drugs can be involved in road crashes.

Alcohol and drugs slow brain functions, increase risk-taking and reduce people’s ability to judge speed and distance. This also applies to drink or drug affected pedestrians and their ability to cross the road safely.

Be alert when you see large groups of people on the footpath, and for people suddenly walking out on the road, especially around venues serving alcohol.

Tips for sharing the road safely

Near shopping centres and transport

Pedestrians may not be paying attention around shopping centres and transport hubs, such as bus and tram stops. Slow down and watch out for anyone that might step onto the road.
Watch out for pedestrians walking between parked vehicles or opening car doors.

In poor visibility and conditions

Slow down and prepare to stop when visibility is poor, for example, in rain or fog, or at night, dawn or dusk. Pedestrians are sometimes difficult to see, and may hurry and take risks during poor weather.

When reversing in your vehicle or motorcycle

Pedestrians, especially children, are at greater risk when you're reversing your vehicle, particularly when entering or leaving a driveway. Take extra care by looking over your shoulder, checking rear-view and side mirrors and only reverse for the shortest distance that’s necessary.

When pedestrians are using the road

You must give way to any pedestrian crossing a road you are entering.
Use caution when pedestrians are using the road. Slow down to give them extra space when passing, if necessary.

Last updated:: 31 October 2023