Motorists will be forced to drive slower on select streets as part of a trial to reduce the risk of crashes with pedestrians and cyclists.

Transport and Main Roads is seeking a "communication specialist" to educate the public about the need for, and benefit of, reduced speed limits in areas of high pedestrian and cyclist activity, and crashes.

In 2017, pedestrians and cyclists accounted for about 17 per cent of all Queensland road fatalities, with 35 pedestrians and eight cyclists killed. Credit:Rob Homer

Lower speeds for vehicles reduced the risk of crashes with pedestrians and cyclists, and reduced the severity of crashes, a government tender said.

"However, public attitudes toward lower speed limits can deter road authorities from introducing speed limits that would provide greater protection to these vulnerable road users," it says.