Traffic and Highway Patrol officers are targeting risky driver behaviour at level crossings in support of a campaign in south west NSW with a particular focus the Upper Hunter.
The enforcement starts today (Monday 23 May 2016) and runs until 28 May 2016.
This is part of an ongoing series of safety campaigns relating to level crossings, and is a joint initiative by the NSW Police Force and Transport for NSW.
The aim of these campaigns is to reduce the number of collisions on the state’s 1400 public-level crossings. Between 2001 and 2015, there were 122 collisions involving trains and road vehicles at level crossings throughout the state.
Further, research by the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) indicates there can be up to 10 ‘near hit’ incidents involving trains and a motor vehicle, pedestrian or bicycle riders every month.
As part of the operation, officers will be on the look-out for dangerous motorist behaviour such as ignoring signs, speeding near level crossings and illegally using a mobile phone rather than concentrating on the level crossing.
In 2015, NSW Police issued 470 penalty notices for level-crossing offences, and this figure has been trending upwards for four years.
“Even with the inherent dangers involved, we still see a disappointing number of drivers ignoring safety warnings and controls at NSW level crossings,” campaign coordinator Senior Sergeant Mick Timms, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command said.
“These campaigns remind drivers to take extreme care at level crossings and not become complacent, as a single moment of distraction or recklessness could cost them their life,” Senior Sergeant Timms said.