Following successful trials conducted in four southeast Queensland intersections, including Aspley, local officials have announced the extension of the implementation of the Hold the Red trial.
Read: Active Collision Technology on Trial at Busy Aspley Intersection
Transport Minister Mark Bailey announced that 15 intersections have been selected for the expanded rollout and they were specifically chosen due to their ‘poor safety records’ concerning drivers running red lights.
Although the government has not disclosed the exact locations where the technology will be deployed, one intersection guaranteed to receive the system is the junction of Finucane and Windermere roads at Alexandra Hills.
This particular intersection has tragically witnessed several fatal crashes in the past, prompting officials to prioritise its inclusion in the expanded rollout.
This announcement coincided with the commencement of National Road Safety Week (14 to 21 May 2023), which aims to raise awareness about safe driving practices and prevent accidents on the roads.
“This National Road Safety Week, Queenslanders are being asked to ‘drive so that others survive,” Mr Bailey said.
“It’s an important message that reminds us that road safety is everyone’s responsibility.”
How it Works
The implementation of the Hold the Red (HTR) system involves integrating it into the Traffic Controller Cabinet at signalised intersections through the use of a virtual loop card.
Using radar technology, the system effectively monitors and tracks every vehicle approaching an intersection, providing coverage up to a distance of 150 metres from the stop line.
When the radar detects a potential red light violation during the all-red phase, the HTR system takes immediate action by extending the duration of the opposing red lights.
This proactive measure significantly reduces the likelihood of another vehicle entering the intersection simultaneously with the offending vehicle, thereby enhancing safety and preventing potential collisions.
According to a comprehensive evaluation conducted by the Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety Queensland, the trial of the HTR system showcased remarkable potential in reducing crashes related to red light violations by 33.47 percent at intersections where it was implemented.
Furthermore, the evaluation revealed that the HTR system had minimal effects on traffic flow, causing only slight delays at intersections. On weekdays, the maximum delay observed was 10 seconds, while on weekends, it amounted to just 8.5 seconds.
Read: Volunteers Welcome at the North Brisbane Indigenous Community and Police Consultative Group
Since 2018, the government has conducted trials not only in Aspley but also in Calamvale, Ashmore, and Broadbeach Waters.
Published 17-May-2023
