A Recent Smart Traffic Systems Project at UNSW

University campuses are complex traffic environments. With high pedestrian volumes, mixed vehicle types, service deliveries, and constrained underground car parks, vehicle–pedestrian conflict at car park exits is a persistent safety risk.

Smart Traffic Systems recently delivered a Car Park Exit Warning System at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) to address exactly this challenge—improving safety, visibility, and driver awareness at a high-risk exit location.

The Safety Challenge at Car Park Exits

Car park exits are one of the most common locations for near-miss incidents and accidents. Typical risk factors include:

  • Limited sightlines when vehicles exit onto footpaths or shared zones

  • High pedestrian traffic, especially on university campuses

  • Vehicles accelerating from low-light indoor environments into bright outdoor areas

  • Drivers focused on merging into traffic rather than detecting pedestrians

At UNSW, these risks are amplified by constant pedestrian movement between buildings, bicycles, service vehicles, and peak-hour congestion.

The Smart Traffic Systems Solution

To mitigate these risks, Smart Traffic Systems installed an intelligent Car Park Exit Warning System, designed to provide real-time alerts to both drivers and pedestrians.

Key system components included:

  • Vehicle detection sensors positioned within the exit lane

  • A/V warning  facing pedestrian paths

  • Dynamic alerts activated only when vehicles are present

  • Clear visual cues to warn pedestrians of approaching vehicles

Unlike static signage, the system operates only when there is an active risk, ensuring warnings are noticed and not ignored over time.

Why Exit Warning Systems Matter on University Campuses

University environments like UNSW present unique safety demands:

  • Large volumes of pedestrians throughout the day

  • Students distracted by mobile devices

  • Multiple user groups: pedestrians, cyclists, service vehicles, staff and visitors

  • Increased liability exposure for asset owners

A sensor-based exit warning system provides a proactive safety layer, reducing reliance on driver judgement alone and significantly improving reaction times.

Benefits Delivered at UNSW

The installed solution provides immediate and long-term benefits:

  • Improved pedestrian safety at a known conflict point

  • Clear, real-time warnings for both drivers and pedestrians

  • Reduced risk of accidents and near misses

  • Low maintenance, automated operation

  • Compliance with modern car park safety expectations

Most importantly, the system integrates seamlessly into the existing car park infrastructure without disrupting daily operations.

A Smarter Approach to Car Park Safety

Car Park Exit Warning Systems are a simple yet highly effective way to improve safety in high-risk areas—particularly in environments like universities, hospitals, shopping centres, and commercial buildings.

The UNSW project highlights how targeted smart traffic technology can deliver meaningful safety improvements with minimal complexity.

Looking to Improve Exit Safety in Your Car Park?

Smart Traffic Systems designs and delivers customised car park safety solutions across Australia, including:

  • Exit warning systems

  • Height and over-height detection

  • Vehicle priority systems

  • Parking guidance and LED signage

Call us today on 02 9838 7220/0412 397 540 to discuss how an exit warning system can improve safety in your facility.