Speed limit changes to 40km/h

Speed plays a big role in the severity of injuries resulting from a crash. A lower speed is safer for all road users, particularly in busy pedestrian areas like Hobart's CBD.

The traffic modelling done by independent consultants GHD shows the impact on travel time through the CBD is very minimal.

In addition, many of the major traffic delays are caused by vehicle crashes so a speed reduction may mean fewer delays. If vehicles move more slowly, the risk of a crash is reduced.

Reducing the speed of a vehicle allows a driver and other road users more time to react to a potential crash, and reduces the distance that a vehicle needs to stop once the brakes are applied.

Road safety research also shows that people have a higher chance of surviving a crash if the vehicle speed is less than 40km/h.

Probability of fatal injury in relation to vehicle speed

Source: Improving Pedestrian Safety, Curtin-Monash Accident Research Centre

A calmer traffic environment can reduce the stress on all road users.

Lower speed urban areas encourage people to walk around the city and makes it safer and more inviting for active travel.

The speed limits on Davey Street and Macquarie Street have not changed, and remain at 50km/h.

Yes, many Australian cites have a 40km/h speed limit.

Hobart already has a 40km/h speed limit throughout the Hobart waterfront and Battery Point area, in the popular dining strip in North Hobart and around schools.

Moonah and Glenorchy also have 40 km/h speed zones through their busy retail strips. In some areas of Hobart, lower speed limits have been previously implemented to ensure higher levels of safety for all road users.