Road upgrade follows fatal accident

Forensic police officers survey drivers at the crossing where the accident occurred.

Noosa Council have elected to upgrade the road along Hilton Terrace, Noosaville, beyond legal requirements following the second fatal accident in almost 12 months at pedestrian crossings on the street.

Last Thursday about 12.45pm an 89-year-old woman was returning home on her mobility scooter when she crossed the pedestrian crossing, was struck by a car and later died in hospital.

Noosa Heads senior sergeant Ben Carroll said forensic police were investigating the accident to prepare a report for the coroner. To date no charges have been laid against the driver.

He said both pedestrians and drivers have equal part to play in terms of safety and he urged people to be mindful of the road rules.

Just over a year ago on 27 April, 2018 about 5.30pm a 59-year-old Victorian man who was holidaying in the area was walking across the pedestrian crossing a block away on Hilton Terrace in front of the Noosa Lakes Resort when he was struck by a white Corolla and died at the scene.

The 88-year-old driver of the car has been charged with dangerous driving causing death. She will appear in the Maroochydore District Court on 28 March for mention.

Snr sgt Carroll said following the first crash Council upgraded all lighting along the roadway and audited the area, finding it was compliant with required standards.

He said Council would be installing a new roundabout on the corner Hilton Terrace and Ernest Street to assist traffic flow and act as a traffic calming measure.

In addition there will be compliant bicycle lanes installed along the corridor and improvements to infrastructure.

The section of road from Ernest Street to the Tewantin Noosa Bowls Club was earmarked for other road improvement including drainage upgrades.

A traffic advisory group composed of Council, police and Department of Main Roads representatives meet regularly to discuss complaints, and road and traffic issues.