NSW Police are undertaking a two-week campaign targeting risky driver behaviour at level crossings in the state’s central west.
Between October 2 and October 15 officers from both Traffic and Highway Patrol Command and Orana-Mid West Police District are performing more patrols at level crossings in areas around Dubbo.
Police will be on the lookout for motorists disobeying level crossing stop signs, ignoring flashing lights, speeding near level crossings and drivers who are distracted by illegal use of mobile phones.
NSW Police says more than 500 penalty notices were filed for level crossing traffic offenses across the state last year.
“From July 2001 to June 2018 there were 144 collisions between trains and road vehicles at level crossings in NSW, which sadly resulted in deaths and serious injuries in some cases,” Traffic and Highway Patrol commander Julie Middlemiss said.
“This is why we’re cracking down on dangerous behaviours – to firstly educate drivers of the risks around level crossings – and then if needs be – by supporting the issuing of fines and demerit points for road rules being disobeyed.”
This year’s series of NSW Police level crossing campaigns are around the message “Train to Stop”.
“Road users should always exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings when navigating level crossings as a single moment of distraction or recklessness can cost them their lives,” Middlemiss said.
Residents in areas around the campaign have been informed through letterbox drops, and electronic billboards are also cautioning motorists.