Concerns have been raised about the safety of a common type of crossing after a second collision occurred at the same spot within 18 months.
On Monday morning, a 14-year-old girl was riding her e-bike across a shared bicycle and pedestrian crossing when she was struck by a car on Campbell Avenue in Cromer on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.
A NSW Police spokesperson told Yahoo News emergency services rushed to the scene following reports of the collision.
After arriving, police were informed that a black MG SUV had struck an e-bike. It is understood the e-bike was caught under the front of the car.
“Fire & Rescue NSW treated the rider, a 14-year-old girl, for minor injuries, and she was taken to hospital by NSW Ambulance paramedics for further assessment,” the statement read.
The 26-year-old female driver underwent roadside testing and returned a negative result.
Inquiries into the crash remain ongoing.
Bicycle NSW CEO Peter McLean told Yahoo News the 14-year-old e-bike rider was very lucky.
“This young lady is very lucky she wasn’t more significantly injured, and this is an example of why helmets should be worn at all times,” he said.
“This is because a bicycle rider can’t control what other road users are doing and should protect themselves in case these incidents occur.
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McLean said the type of crossing where the incident occurred is “very safe” and is commonly used across all lower-speed urban areas.
“Drivers need to constantly remind themselves that they share the road with vulnerable users like motorbikes, pedestrians and bicycle users, they don’t enjoy the same protection which a car provides,” he said.
Bicycle NSW has recommended that a review of the crossing be undertaken to see if any small improvements can be made to increase safety.
The review could look into reducing speed limits for motorists, surface treatments and ensuring there aren’t opportunities for sight lines to be blocked, McLean said.
“Vegetation, incorrectly parked cars and other distractions sometimes compromise a safe crossing.”
The increase in e-bikes on Aussie roads means drivers have to be even more alert. Source: Getty Images.
(MARTIN LELIEVRE via Getty Images)
Locals reacted to the collision online with many asking how the accident occurred and whether the crossing can be improved.
“Drivers should always be prepared to stop,” one person said.
“This is so sad, and I hope she makes a full recovery,” said.
How the pedestrian crossing may be made safer
Another person suggested the crossing needs a corral — a metal installation that will bring the bike rider to a stop before navigating the crossing.
“The crossing needs a corral to stop cyclists being able to ride straight onto the crossing, a few strategically placed railings to slow access,” they said.
The state government outlines that under NSW Road Rule 248, cyclists must dismount and walk their bike across a designated pedestrian crossing or children’s crossing. The only exception is if the crossing has green bicycle lantern lights installed.
This is the second crash to occur at this pedestrian crossing in 18 months after a woman was hit by a car in November, 2024.
It was reported the pedestrian was sent flying and spun around in the air.
Yahoo News has contacted Northern Beaches Council for comment.
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