Former Blain MLA, ex-cop Mark Turner contests $300 fine, arguing the legality of speed sign was ‘in serious doubt’
A former Territory politician will fight a $300 fine, arguing the legality of a speed sign on one of Darwin’s busiest roads was ‘in serious doubt’.
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A former politician has blamed a wobbly sign for a $300 ticket after he was allegedly busted speeding through Darwin’s northern suburbs.
Mark Turner appeared in Darwin Local Court on Wednesday charged with exceeding the speed limit in a 70km/h zone.
It is alleged the ex-cop turned Palmerston politician was driving between 15 to 30 km/h over the limit while on Amy Johnson Ave, Marrara around 2.30pm, October 4.
In documents provided to the NT News, Mr Turner argued a loose 70km/h sign between McMillians and Boulter roads had contributed to the speeding fine, stating the legality of the ticket was “in serious doubt”.
“It was facing away from ongoing traffic, compromising its visibility for drivers,” Mr Turner said.
“A driver must adhere to the speed indicated on the posted sign only if that sign is in place and legible for the driver.
“The sign was so poorly fastened and angled that drivers could not reasonably be expected to see it, the legality and enforceability of that speed limit sign is in serious doubt.”
The former cop also argued there was a lack of “consistent or properly posted signage” in an area where the speed limits changed.
The alleged driving breach occurred just 39 days after the independent lost his Blain seat to Country Liberal Party candidate Matthew Kerle.
In a first appearance hearing before Judge Woodcock, Mr Turner stated he would fight the charge, entering a not guilty plea.
His matter was adjourned to April 14 for a directions hearing.
In his letter to police, Mr Turner requested the charge be withdrawn, given the lack of proper signage meant it was a “honest and reasonable mistake”.
The penalty for travelling 15 to 30 km/h over the limit is a $300 fine and three demerit points.
Outside of court the former politician was surprised to see a journalist, exclaiming “for a speeding fine, really?”.
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Originally published as Former Blain MLA, ex-cop Mark Turner contests $300 fine, arguing the legality of speed sign was ‘in serious doubt’
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