11 November 2015

Driver behaviour under the spotlight at roundabouts

From 16 - 29 November, roundabouts in Lower Hutt will be patrolled by Police in an effort to promote compliance around give way rules and correct signalling at roundabouts.

Drivers who fail to give way or signal correctly will be stopped, and may be issued with a warning or an infringement notice.

Those who are unsure about road rules at roundabouts and need a refresher will be given information that includes how to indicate correctly.

Wellington District Road Policing Manager Inspector Mike Wright, says, “Intersections and roundabout vehicle crashes remain a significant factor in crash statistics in Lower Hutt.”

“Whilst roundabouts are designed to keep traffic flows moving, it is important that drivers approach, enter and exit roundabouts with care and consideration for other road users.”

“Police will be looking at a mix of education and enforcement during this joint campaign with Hutt City Council in an effort to further reduce crashes and alleviate motorist inconvenience at Lower Hutt roundabouts.”

Statistics for the city’s busiest roundabouts show that around one quarter of crashes result from drivers failing to give way.

Council’s Road Safety Coordinator Jan Simmons says, “When drivers indicate their intentions clearly, it reduces the risk of things going wrong.”

Recent monitoring at roundabouts in the CBD showed that only 30 per cent of drivers travelling straight through a roundabout indicated before exiting. Results were slightly better for drivers turning right, with 40-45 per cent indicating correctly.

Failing to give way when entering a roundabout can result in a fine of $150, plus 20 demerit points.

Failing to indicate left before exiting a roundabout can result in a fine of $150.

ENDS

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