LIMESTONE Coast police are fed up with careless drivers putting lives at risk by failing to slow down around emergency services.
Motorists ignoring the 25kph speed restrictions around emergency vehicles which have their lights activated risk fines of up to $1096.
However, Limestone Coast Highway Patrol Senior Constable First Class Dale Fox said the risk to emergency services from drivers flouting the rule was far higher, particularly on high-speed regional roads.
“Often I have seen vehicles show no consideration at all when passing my emergency vehicle at a traffic stop which is highly dangerous as well as breaching a road rule,” Snr Cnst Fox said
“That at times has placed both myself and the motorist at risk.”
Snr Cnst Fox saidpolice always endeavour to conduct traffic stops in appropriate locations, however warned the onus was still on the passing driver to adhere to the rules.
“Motorists must be reminded the 25kph speed emergency zone goes for both directions unless the road is divided by a median strip,” he said.
“Police officers will do all they can to conduct vehicle stops in a location where it is safe for everyone however it is also the responsibility of other motorists to avoid potential dangers on the road and drive to conditions.”
“This applies to all emergency vehicles and not just police vehicles.”
The presence of an emergency vehicle with its lights activated automatically creates a temporary speed zone.
“The penalties for failing to adhere to those rules can range from a $234 fine and two demerit points up to a $1096 fine and nine demerit points,” he said.
“In some cases it can also lead to a court appearance.”
While admitting it can be difficult for the highway patrol to police, he said people would be naive to think police could not pursue the matter.
“These emergency zones come and go quickly and in some cases it is difficult to police the speed limit,” Snr Cnst Fox said.
“Police can actually follow-up with the driver after the fact without necessarily using a speed detection device.”
