The intersection of Washington Avenue and Bussell Highway has accumulated 31 motor vehicle accidents since January 2005, according to Minister for Transport Simon O’Brien, making it number 13 in black spot intersections around Bunbury.
The statistics were cited as the Minister announced a $1.15 million contract to Southern Road Services to improve safety at the intersection. The contract will provide for realignment, improved street lighting, and drainage works to direct storm water away from a nearby sensitive environmental area.
Bunbury MLA John Castrilli blamed long queues of traffic which form at peak times for the poor judgement often shown by drivers at the intersection. “Drivers are often impatient or uncertain when entering Bussell Highway, meaning they are more likely to pull out without really considering their own safety,” Mr Castrilli said.
Statistics indicated that of the 31 crashes, 22 had been rear-enders, which according to the Minister usually indicate inattention and risk taking by impatient drivers.
Neither the Minister or Mr Castrilli indicated how the installation of traffic lights at the intersection would improve driver attitude, given that traffic lights may simply provide another source of frustration to drivers who put convenience before safety.