mmg.com.au

The Guardian has been approached by a number of people in recent weeks, all complaining about the safety features of Tatura’s two pedestrian crossing.

All say it is only a matter of time before someone is hit and seriously injured. They agree that most of the time motorists simply ignore people preparing to cross, or already on the crossing.

As one said last week, ‘‘it is like a game of Russian roulette — you never know if it is safe to cross or not.’’

Both pedestrian crossings, at the post office and at Foodworks, are well sign-posted.

The Guardian has seen many close calls, particularly at the crossing near the office.

The crossings are frequently used by the elderly, people in motorised wheelchairs and children.

According to VicRoads, ‘‘At a pedestrian crossing, which has a pedestrian crossing sign and white stripes on the road surface, drivers must give way to any pedestrians on the crossing, but may proceed after giving way.

‘‘At pedestrian crossings, drivers must not overtake another vehicle which has stopped at a pedestrian crossing, and when approaching a crossing, they must drive at a speed that would enable them to stop safely.’’

It should also be noted, that it is against the law for a pedestrian to cross the road within 20m of a pedestrian crossing.

VicRoads said the onus is on pedestrians to make sure drivers or riders see them.

‘‘Think about whether it is safe before you cross. Only cross when the traffic is stopping,’’ VicRoads said.

Tatura police have been alerted to the matter, and while they can not be everywhere, said they would monitor the situation.