Driving with trams
The new laws are:
- When sharing the road with trams, a driver must stop before passing the rear of a stopped tram at a tram stop. Once the tram doors are closed and pedestrians have crossed between the tram and kerb, a driver may then proceed at no more than 10 km/h past the tram.
- Unless there is a sign which permits parking, a driver must not stop or park within 20 metres of a tram stop.
Tram lanes
Tram lanes are identified by a solid yellow line and overhead signage that shows an image of a tram and the word ‘LANE’ (see below).
It is important to note that some tram lanes operate full-time, while others are part-time.
Part-time tram lanes have the same sign as a full-time tram lane, but the sign also shows the days and times that it functions as a tram lane.
- A driver may drive in a tram lane for up to 50 metres to enter or leave the road or to avoid an obstruction.
What you have to do
You should:
- as a driver, be alert to the presence of trams near tram stops and tram lanes
- as a pedestrian, watch carefully for cars as the tram is stopping
- as a driver when turning, you can only use the tram lane for a maximum of 50 metres.
Why the changes
Trams are an important part of the Melbourne transport network and these new laws will make it easier and safer for commuters to use them.
By working together we can improve the travel time and reliability of public transport. If a tram is delayed, all the commuters on that tram, which could be up to 200 people, will be delayed.
Other new rules: Tramways
Tramways will be introduced in Victoria.
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A tramway is a part of a road that is identified by overhead signage that shows an image of a tram and the word ‘ONLY’ (see above) and is marked along the left side of the road by two continuous yellow lines or raised dividing strips.
- A driver is not allowed to drive in a tramway.
Tramways will ensure that trams can keep moving. This will ultimately help to improve the travel time and reliability of public transport.
Driving with trams
When driving near trams it is important to look for the overhead tram signs and yellow road line marking. These work together to advise where vehicles are permitted to drive.
These line markings indicate the following:
- broken yellow lines: broken yellow lines beside tram tracks mean you may drive on the tram tracks, but you must not delay a tram
- single continuous yellow line: A driver may drive in a tram lane for up to 50 metres in order to enter or leave the road or to avoid an obstruction.
- two continuous yellow lines: Indicates a tramway. A driver is not allowed to drive in a tramway.
- raised dividing strips: Indicate a tram lane or tramway depending on the overhead signage. A driver is not allowed to drive over a raised dividing strip.
Click here to view the Frequently Asked Questions.
Information on the new road safety rules and child restraints is also available in the following languages.
