The new way of driving the M1 is now active*
Overhead electronic signs are now in use along the sections of the M1 corridor! Melbourne motorists are advice to look up and look ahead for the new signs that are part of the state-of-the-art freeway management system. The system is designed to help improve traffic flow and safety on one of the State's busiest routes.
*Some sections of the M1 are still undergoing upgrade works and do not currently have the new electronic signs activated. Roadside static signage will be provided at these locations in place of the overhead signs. M1 advises drivers to please be aware and look out for these signs when in use.
Watch an animation explaining the freeway management system.
The system uses the latest technologies to provide reliable journey times, improved safety, quicker response to incidents, and enhanced information for drivers.
When an incident occurs, the control centre can use traffic control cameras to see conditions on the road and change the overhead signs, electronic message signs and ramp signals in order to manage the traffic flow and alert road users to conditions ahead. This may include closing lanes, reducing the speed limit and programming information signs to warn motorists of the incident.
Overhead signs
New overhead signs appear at intervals along the M1 and will eventually be introduced between Williamstown Road, Yarraville, on the West Gate Freeway (west of the West Gate Bridge) and High Street, Glen Iris, on the Monash Freeway.
The signs will be used to advise drivers which lanes are currently open, what the speed limit is, as well as manage the closure of lanes in the event of an incident.
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Speed limits change to respond to incidents or congestion on the freeway.
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When an incident occurs, arrows direct drivers to change into designated lanes.
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A red X means a lane is closed. The closed lanes can give emergency services vehicles clear access.
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If necessary, arrows can direct drivers to exit the freeway.
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Express Lanes are used to minimise merging traffic traffic at exits from Toorak Road to Warrigal Road by separating traffic. Please click here for more information. |
Electronic message signs
Electronic message signs located on the freeway and on arterial roads provide up-to-date travel information and give advanced warning of incidents.
Real time traffic information signs
Real time traffic information signs allow drivers to make choices about their travel route before they enter the freeway.
Ramp signals
Ramp signals are traffic lights on entry ramps to the freeway that operate when traffic is heavy to make it safer and easier for you to merge onto the freeway. Only one vehicle in each lane can enter the freeway on each green signal.
The ramp signal system enables ramps to ‘talk' to each other to balance the number of cars entering at any one time and maintain a steady flow of traffic on the freeway.
Read more about ramp signals on the VicRoads website.
Emergency breakdown
What happens if I break down?
If you can stop in an emergency stopping lane or breakdown bay, then:
- switch on your hazard lights and remain in your vehicle;
- if you have to get out watch carefully for other traffic and move to the front of your vehicle - never stand behind; and
- if you need roadside assistance, use an emergency roadside telephone (located in every emergency stopping area) or your mobile to contact VicRoads control centre (phone 13 11 70).
If you cannot stop in an emergency stopping lane or breakdown bay, then:
- if possible, try to park to the side of the road (whichever side you are closest to);
- switch on your hazard lights and remain in your vehicle;
- if you have a mobile, contact the VicRoads control centre (phone 13 11 70); and
- in addition, extensive CCTV coverage means operators will spot any incident and take appropriate action.
Exit ramp numbering
As part of the M1 upgrade, exits on the M1 will now be consecutively numbered to make it easier to pre-plan trips and assist emergency services to quickly identify a specific location on the freeway using the closest exit number.
The numbers increase or decrease (from east to west inbound or west to east outbound) freeway making it easier to pre-plan trips - you simply need to remember which exit number to take.
Exit numbers will be shown in future editions of Melbourne street directories.