New road rules now apply Road users will become subject to new road rules and tougher penalties this month, as the NSW Government seeks to make the state’s roads safer. On September 1 a new road rule comes into force requiring motorists to slow to 40km/h when they pass a stationary emergency vehicle displaying blue or red flashing lights. The rule applies to vehicles traveling in both directions, unless the lanes are divided by a median strip. The rule also requires motorists to give way to any person on foot in the immediate area of the emergency vehicle. Motorists should not increase their speed until they are a safe distance past the vehicle, so as not to cause danger to anyone in the vicinity. The penalty for breaking the rule is a $448 fine and three demerit points. This month also sees an increase in demerit points for illegal mobile phone use while driving. NSW now has the highest demerit penalty in the country, with five points now lost for the offence. It has increased from four.
“We know from a recent RMS survey that 74 per cent of the community support a crackdown to illegal phone use behind the wheel,” Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey said. “We all see it and the community has had enough.” In July legislation came into effect to allow speed camera style technology to also detect mobile phone use.
Hamilton Clocktower Markets
Father’s Day Markets, Saturday 1st September
And every Thursday from 6th September plus Saturday 15th and 29th Sidetrackmarketsandevents.com • Phone: 0404 409 260 Page 12 > The Local > September 2018