Preventing End-of-Queue Crashes With Proven Technology

End-of-queue crashes are one of the most common and dangerous incidents in Australian work zones, often caused by distracted drivers colliding with queued traffic at temporary signals. Independent research by Deakin University and iMOVE CRC found that ARROWES’ eSERIES devices, including the eSTOP and eSASb, delivered large reductions in speeding and a measurable decrease in rear-end crash risk. By alerting drivers up to 400m in advance and providing live speed feedback, ARROWES is leading the way in proven, Australian-made safety technology that protects both roadworkers and motorists.
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Preventing End-of-Queue Crashes With Proven Technology

When roadworks slow traffic, queues form fast. A distracted driver approaching at speed often doesn’t react in time, leading to an end-of-queue (EOQ) crash. These collisions are among the most common and dangerous incidents in Australian work zones.

A major study led by Deakin University and iMOVE CRC found that EOQ crashes account for around 40% of all work zone incidents in NSW. Their research trialled 25 treatments across 13 sites, and the results were clear: advance warning systems work.

The eSERIES Advantage

ARROWES is leading the way with a proven solution: the eSERIES, integrating our eSTOP portable traffic light with the eSASb Speed Awareness Sign.

  • When the light turns red, the eSASb, positioned up to 400 metres upstream, automatically alerts approaching drivers that a queue is forming.
  • The sign also provides live speed feedback, encouraging drivers to slow earlier and approach more safely.

Evidence That It Works

The Deakin/iMOVE study identified eSERIES treatments as among the most effective tested:

  • Very large reductions in excess speed (>5 km/h).
  • Reduced probability of speeding by more than 10%.
  • Decreased rear-end crash risk, based on near-miss analysis.
  • Positive driver feedback, with most wanting the system used more widely

Why This Matters

  • Lives protected: Workers and motorists are less exposed to high-impact rear-end crashes.
  • Proven locally: These results come from Australian worksites, not just theory.
  • Future-ready: ARROWES has already delivered a built, deployable solution that can be scaled today.

End-of-queue crashes are predictable and preventable. With eSTOP + eSASb integration, ARROWES is not just talking about safety innovation; we are delivering it in the field.

Because every second of warning can be the difference between a safe stop and a serious crash.

Keywords: end-of-queue crashes, rear-end collisions, roadwork safety, ARROWES eSERIES, eSTOP, eSAS, speed awareness sign, work zone safety, traffic management innovation, portable traffic light, queue warning system, Deakin University study, iMOVE CRC, Transport for NSW (TfNSW), Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), VicRoads, Main Roads Western Australia, Department of Infrastructure and Transport (SA), Department of State Growth Tasmania, Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics NT, Department of Transport ACT

Written by Nathan Psaila, Executive General Manager at ARROWES Roading Safety

Find the IMOVE Study: https://imoveaustralia.com/project/project-outcomes/roadworks-zones-increasing-safety-for-roadworkers-and-drivers/

More information in the eSERIES product: Click Here