Trams would be protected by raised kerbs on either side of tracks under a $42 million proposal to decrease the number of collisions between cars and trams.

Concrete and bluestone kerbing could be installed on tram tracks along busy CBD streets and inner-city arterials, blocking motorists from crossing the tracks.

A car hit on Elizabeth Street last year. Credit:Reddit/@hopefulpenguin

About 38km of track have been identified as suitable for greater separation in a business case commissioned by Yarra Trams, including stretches of Collins, Bourke and Elizabeth streets.

Inner-city streets including Bridge Road, St Kilda Road, Commercial Road and Fitzroy street could have the kerbing installed.