Inquiry submission makes case for warning signs to avoid inadvertent non-compliance
The National Road Transport Association (NatRoad) has asked the NSW government for greater clarity and consistency around mobile speed camera warning signs.
In particular, its submission to the NSW Joint Standing Committee on Road Safety Inquiry into Mobile Speed Camera Enforcement Programs made a call for the return of speed camera warning signs.
NatRoad’s contention is variable speed limits cannot operate without their locations being disclosed.
While this applies for fixed or mobile speed cameras, it’s “especially critical” where the limit is unclear or is variable and frequently changing, NatRoad CEO Warren Clark noted.
“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,” Clark said.
“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.”
Clark’s column on prioritising drug driving enforcement, here
The call was prompted by the experience of a NatRoad member whose otherwise decades-long unblemished record was undone by 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,” Clark says.
“They produce frustration for motor vehicle drivers who sometimes resort to overtaking in a dangerous manner.
“Heavy and light vehicles need to be separated wherever possible and programs introduced to reinforce appropriate driving behaviour around heavy vehicles.”
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,” Clark said.
“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.”
The full submission is available here.