More than 100 drivers and pedestrians were spoken to by SA Police during Rail Safety Week in a bid to ensure greater awareness around trains and trams.
Officers in all areas, but particularly those associated with the Traffic Support Branch and Public Transport Safety Branch, were focused on engaging the community in safe rail practices.
During TSB’s Operation Rail Safe, a state-wide traffic operation, 130 drivers and pedestrians were issued expiation notices for a variety of offences over the week.
Included were 68 drivers who failed to stop at a stop sign and five drivers who entered a level crossing with the warning bells and lights activated for an approaching train. Both offences carry a fine of $487 plus a Victims of Crime Levy of $60 and three demerit points.
Five pedestrians were issued with expiations for not using the pedestrian facility at a level crossing and one person for crossing a railway line when a train was approaching. (NOTE: the expiation fee for both is $51, plus $60 Victims of Crime Levy)
In addition, police from PTSB reported two boys, aged 13 and 14, for marking graffiti and issued 23 general expiation notices for a range of offences including ticket offences and failing to comply with a warning device at a crossing.
“This week-long operation is about raising awareness and knowledge in the community about the potentially devastating consequences of not exercising caution or obeying the rules around trains and trams,” said Superintendent Bob Gray, the officer in charge of TSB.
“Police were generally pleased with the behaviour of drivers and pedestrians over the week of the operation.
“However, people still need to pay attention – using their eyes, ears and brains to ensure their safety at rail crossings and on platforms.”
