CBD intersections cleared of red light runners by increased fines and cautions
After it created gridlock at peak hour, police have solved the Adelaide CBD problem of blocked intersections.
SA News
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Traffic fines and cautions for vehicles entering blocked intersections have jumped since the issue came to a head two years ago.
In November 2017, weeks of traffic chaos prompted the Transport Department to remind bus contractors “not to queue over intersections … and only proceed if there is sufficient space on the other side of the intersection’’.
In 2016-17, just 16 fines and 32 cautions had been issued.
But by last financial year, that had risen to 29 fines and 101 cautions.
And fines are set to rise dramatically this financial year, if the trend from the first quarter continues, as 16 have already been issued.
RAA spokesman Charles Mountain said motorists as well as bus drivers needed to ensure they didn’t follow the traffic across an intersection unless they could see there was enough space for them.
“Queuing across an intersection can be extremely dangerous because the lights might change, leaving you in the way of oncoming traffic and potentially blocking the pedestrian crossing, putting pedestrians at risk too,” Mr Mountain said.
“It’s also potentially life-threatening if you are caught straddling rail lines as a train or tram approaches, as they take much longer to come to a halt than a car.
“Creeping forward a couple of metres into an intersection when traffic is at a standstill achieves no advantage and in fact adds time to the journey of all road users.
“You must stay on the approach side of the intersection until you see a space in your lane on the other side of the intersection that is big enough for your vehicle.
“That’s why it’s important to be vigilant with traffic ahead and watch for signs of unexpected slowing.”
Mr Mountain said if caught queuing across an intersection, motorists risked being hit with a $259 fine.
And if caught queuing across a level crossing, they risked a much larger penalty of $487.
A police spokeswoman said: “It is an offence to enter a blocked intersection due to the inherent risks associated with such behaviour.
“Drivers need to be aware of traffic movement and ensure that they do not enter an intersection that is blocked.”