Get off your phone is the message.
Luas operator Transdev has issued a plea to the public to be more aware of their surroundings following some near misses with pedestrians.
The company said that people looking down on their phones rather than where they’re going has contributed to an increase in incidents between the Luas and pedestrians.
In a statement the company said: “Pedestrian behaviour, as observed by Luas Drivers in recent years, is most interesting; earphones in, head down, and thumb firmly fixed on screen.
“More and more people don’t even look up, yet alone look left and right. Commuters are distracted. Walking out in front of an oncoming tram is a common experience.”
In 2018, there’s been 223 instances of emergency break incidents by a Luas due to pedestrians entering the tramway. This number is up on the 203 which happened in 2017.
The company warned of the dangers of not paying attention and the possible consequences.
“This safety message is a reminder to pedestrians and motorists that it takes time for a tram to stop. The use of emergency brakes is not a pleasant experience for those on board.
“Think of the injury you could sustain as a pedestrian or the damage you could do to your car as a motorist. Even minor damages cost.”
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