NT changes forever
From Northern Territory News
By Greg McLean
January 01, 2007
TODAY marks the
start of a new era for Northern Territory motorists.
New road rules came into
play on our roads from midnight last night.
And drivers can no longer put a foot to the floor when driving on
NT highways, with open speed limits now banished.
From today, a 130km/h speed limit will apply on the Stuart, Arnhem,
Victoria and Barkly highways and a 110km/h speed limit on all other
roads, unless otherwise signposted.
And the Government has made no apologies for ending what many people
are calling part of the Territory way of life.
"It is time to get serious about reducing our road death toll
so we can all continue to enjoy our unique Territory lifestyle,"
Acting Transport Minister Chris Burns said last week.
"The Territory road toll is more than three times the national
average -- people need to take note and obey the laws."
But ending the open speed limit is not the only tough measure the
Government has introduced in their crackdown on speed.
Fines for speeding have doubled, with drivers exceeding the speed
limit by up to 15km/h now being fined $100. Drivers exceeding the
speed limit by up to 30km/h will be fined $200, and up to 400km/h
$300, with a new penalty of $500 for drivers caught doing more than
45km/h.
Motorists who jump red traffic lights or don't wear a seatbelt will
also face double the existing fine.
Dr Burns said the rules would reduce the road toll. "Research
has shown that increased enforcement and penalties means people take
more notice of the road rules," he said.
But the Territory Government has resisted introducing demerit points
for motorists caught breaking the law until a new computer system
is introduced.
"There are a lot of administration issues to be settled in regards
to demerits," Dr Burns said.
"It is hoped demerits will be introduced within the year, but
there is still substantial work to be done on the computer system."
The Minister said he was confident improvements in technology meant
red light cameras would function in the Top End humidity when they
were erected next year.
"I'm assured the new red light cameras will work," Dr Burns
said.
