Red light warning for motorists in new tram safety videos

Aimed at motorists, the animated films from the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board also illustrate the importance of leaving enough space for trams to pass – particularly when parking close to the tracks.

Jamie Swift, LRSSB Head of Commercial, explained: “Featuring eye-catching graphics, the latest ‘Be SMART around Trams’ videos drive home the message that trams take longer to stop than other road vehicles and cannot take other evasive action to avoid collisions.

“As a result, it’s vital that other road users follow the appropriate traffic signals and never risk running a red light, even if they can’t see a tram approaching.”

Previous videos in the series have covered common sense steps to help the public stay safe around tramways and have been used by a number of operators to complement their own safety campaigns.

The latest videos have been developed in partnership with - South Yorkshire Supertram and South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA).

A SYMCA spokesperson commented: “Accidents involving trams have the potential to be very serious; for car users, passengers and colleagues onboard. With more people traveling, we’re reminding everyone to take extra care around the Supertram network – check signals, keep to crossings, look both ways and listen out this festive season.”

Produced on behalf of the LRSSB by Midlands-based agency Creative Star, the full series of videos can be viewed here. Copies of the videos are also available for use by LRSSB members, and further information is available by emailing jamie.swift@lrssb.org.