Traffic controller struck by vehicle at roadwork site (30 April 2026)

A traffic controller was positioned at one end of a work zone on a public road, using a stop/slow bat to control traffic while plant was being moved within the area.

During the activity, a vehicle travelling toward the work area failed to stop and entered the work zone at speed. The vehicle breached temporary water-filled barriers and struck the worker before colliding with plant operating within the site. The worker sustained fatal injuries.

Roadwork site with red barriers, traffic cones, and equipment, showing where a vehicle entered the work area and struck a traffic controller.
Roadworks from another angle, with displaced barriers indicating where a car struck the setup.

Images: Unsecured, empty barriers failed to stop a vehicle.

                                                                                    

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working in or near live traffic, and interaction with vehicles and mobile plant.

Ensure:

  • workers are not required to stand in live traffic where this can be eliminated. Use measures such as portable traffic control devices, including traffic lights or remote-controlled boom gate systems
  • effective physical separation between workers and traffic by installing barriers correctly. Barriers should be continuous and capable of withstanding vehicle impact
  • traffic control plans are implemented as designed, including required speed reductions through the work zone
  • traffic control measures are regularly monitored and audited to maintain effectiveness and compliance
  • the system of work accounts for erratic and non-compliant driver behaviour, including excessive speed or failure to stop
  • appropriate supervision, training and safe systems of work are in place to support traffic management controls
  • traffic control activities are only undertaken by appropriately qualified personnel. As a minimum, traffic controllers must hold the Implement Traffic Control Plans qualification, personnel implementing or monitoring traffic control measures must hold the Traffic Management Implementer qualification, and personnel preparing Traffic Control Plans must hold the relevant Traffic Management Designer qualification.

Related guidance material

Further information

Back to top