The National Road Transport Association has sent a message to the New South Wales Government about mobile speed camera warning signs – and all it’s about clarity.
“You can’t have variable speed limits all over the place and not clearly spell out where they are,” said NatRoad CEO Warren Clark.
“That applies whether the speed cameras involved are fixed or mobile, but it’s especially critical where the limit is unclear or is variable and frequently changing.
“Quite simply, it’s about education. Every enforcement camera tackling speed in NSW must have a warning sign to remind all drivers to do the right thing and check their speed.”
Mr Clark said NatRoad’s submission to the Inquiry into Mobile Speed Camera Enforcement Programs by the NSW Joint Standing Committee on Road Safety made a call for the return of speed camera warning signs.
“Consistent signage is vital for heavy vehicle drivers in NSW which has significant roads applying a lower speed limit for trucks, such as the notorious Mount Ousley descent near Wollongong.
“Variable speed limits can lead to inadvertent non-compliance where signage isn’t prominent enough.”
Mr Clark said a NatRoad member whose driving record was unblemished by a speeding fine for decades recently received an infringement in the NorthConnex tunnel system when a lower variable speed limit was allegedly posted on flashing notices.
“Differential speed limits for trucks are a second-best solution. They produce frustration for motor vehicle drivers who sometimes resort to overtaking in a dangerous manner,” Mr Clark said.
“Heavy and light vehicles need to be separated wherever possible and programs introduced to reinforce appropriate driving behaviour around heavy vehicles.”
Mr Clark said many people viewed speeding fines as revenue-raising because the link between penalties and safety outcomes were unclear or poorly spelt out.
“As it stands, Revenue NSW does not even split its fines data between light and heavy vehicles.
“It’s impossible to see the effects of enforcement on heavy vehicle sector road safety if the basic data is not collected or made available.”
With a proud history dating back to 1948, NatRoad operates to represent its members and as advocates for the $96 billion road freight industry. With more than 45,000 trucking companies employing more than 140,000 people across the country, the road transport industry is one of Australia’s biggest economic drivers.
NatRoad is a not-for-profit Association that is 100% funded via its membership fees and business partnerships. No funding is provided by government or unions. We know the road transport industry. Our board is made up of individuals who run transport businesses and have members from owner-drivers to road freight and large fleet operators, representing all aspects of the industry. General freight, road trains, livestock, tippers, express, car carriers, as well as tankers and refrigerated operators.
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