For the 3 years up until early 2006 the RTA trialled school zone flashing lights at 43 schools across NSW. The results of the trial were published in April 2006 in a 110-page report that is available on the RTA's web site here.

The trial tested various types of warning signs and flashing lights. Following exhaustive statistical analysis it was concluded that the most effective warning system was flashing lights mounted on the 40kmh signs.

Two types of such lights were trialled, Type 1 which was simply two flashing lights like mine, and Type 3 which consisted of two flashing lights plus flashing LEDs around the "40" numerals.

The report concluded (p. v and vi and p.65) that Type 1 lights reduced average traffic speeds by 50% more than Type 3 lights. So whilst the Type 3 lights look impressive, they are in fact less effective, yet the RTA has adopted them for its latest $46.5M rollout, ignoring the results of its own research.

The report further concluded (p.67) that the speed reductions achieved by flashing lights reduced the risk of fatal crashes around schools by 11%. In spite of that the Government has only committed to installing flashing lights at around 4% of school zones.