Finding into death of Arzu Karakoc

Contributing factors

• Truck driver failed to see cyclist crossing intersection
• Simultaneous green traffic signals for truck and cyclist created conflicting right-of-ways
• Driver distraction from mobile phone use during driving
• Limited visibility from heavy vehicle cab despite unobstructed view
• Cyclist visible for insufficient time before collision
• Truck driver did not stop after collision occurred
• Heavy vehicle blind spot prevented driver from seeing bicycle

Coroner's recommendations

1. Re-direct the Federation trail away from Whitehall Road as a temporary measure until completion of the crossover bridge
2. Review the risk and appropriateness of the two sets of electronic messaging systems at the Whitehall Street and Somerville Road intersection, as simultaneous green lights for pedestrians/cyclists and traffic increase accident risk
3. Adopt appropriate vehicle standards to mandate side underrun protection among commercial heavy vehicles in Australia
4. Recommend heavy vehicle standards for blind spot technology and retro-fitting of indirect vision devices and blind spot information systems such as class 5 mirrors and reversing blind spot cameras
5. Recommend and pursue changes in government tender processes to give preference to transport and logistics companies whose heavy vehicle fleets comply with safety improvements in blind spot technology
6. Consider adopting a direct vision standard for trucks such as the London Direct Vision Standard
7. Mandate vulnerable road user awareness training in driver licensing programs for heavy vehicles, noting existing programs such as Sharing Roads Safely and Driver Delivery
8. Encourage and support driver behaviour change programs through public campaigns to increase heavy vehicle driver awareness to look for bike riders
9. Enact a rule or regulation prohibiting placement of stickers or advertising material on door or window glass panels on heavy vehicles which inhibit visibility