Beaumont Hotel bartender Sarah Omelvena, of Waitahuna, said traffic had been travelling much faster past the pub since the new Beaumont Bridge was opened on State Highway 8 last year.
The new two-lane bridge replaced a single-lane bridge, which had traffic lights operating at both ends to control traffic flow.
As traffic no longer had to slow down, Drivers travelled much faster past a seating area in front of the pub.
The area was busy with patrons including cyclists, children and dogs, especially in summer.
"Trucks go flying past. It is quite scary."
She feared it was a matter of time before someone was hurt.
"It only takes one kid to run out."
The pub had launched a petition asking NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi to install a safety barrier outside the pub or lower the speed limit from 100kmh to 50kmh.
So far the petition had more than 500 signatures and it would have more when it was sent to the agency at the end of summer.
NZTA Otago and Southland safety engineer team leader Roy Johnston said a safety audit of the Beaumont Bridge had been completed and there being no barrier in front of the hotel was never raised as an issue.
"It did mention speed limits as something to be investigated in future."
Both a lower speed limit and safety barrier were considered when designing the bridge.
In discussion with the publican, a safety barrier was not installed to allow access from trucks and truck drivers parking on the highway, Mr Johnston said.
Mr Johnston said he was happy to receive any petitions which showed the concerns of local people.
However, a speed limit change was unlikely to be considered until the 2027-30 planning period, he said.
