Auckland Transport Urges Drivers to Slow Down and Think at Intersections
 
Slowing down and taking care at intersections is the message of a new road safety campaign by Auckland Transport.
 
Failure to give way or stop at intersections is a leading cause of road crash injury in Auckland; making up 37 per cent of all crashes in the region during 2006-2010 (NZTA). This included 886 fatal and serious injury crashes.
 
The campaign will aim to improve intersection behaviour by encouraging motorists to be more cautious when driving through intersections, as the majority of crashes result from driver error.  Drivers slowing down when approaching intersections and avoiding red light running are fundamental aspects of improving intersection safety.
 
“Think at intersections” is the theme for the campaign, which highlights two key messages – ‘slow down’ and ‘stop for red’. Radio advertising and billboards at key intersections will help spread the message.  
 
The campaign targets two high-risk groups; male drivers 30 to 39 years in urban areas and young drivers 15 – 19 years in rural areas.
 
The stop for red message builds on an earlier red light running initiative carried out by Auckland Transport and the Police.  In that campaign drivers observed running red lights received infringement notices while drivers seen to safely stop when the lights were yellow received thank you letters for doing the right thing and complying with road rules.
 
In the south and north of Auckland a Police enforcement watch is continuing.   
 
Auckland Transport Community Transport Manger Matthew Rednall says “We are encouraging drivers to think at intersections.  Many people who otherwise drive responsibly put themselves and others at risk by taking chances because they are running late or feel pressured by the drivers behind them.”
 
About Auckland Transport

Auckland Transport is a Council Controlled Organisation (CCO) of Auckland Council. It is responsible for all of the region’s transport services (excluding state highways) - from roads and footpaths, to cycling, parking and public transport.

Among its main tasks are:

§     To design, build and maintain Auckland’s roads, ferry wharves, cycleways and walkways.
  
§     Co-ordinate road safety and community transport initiatives such as school travel

§     Plan and fund bus, train and ferry services across Auckland. 

ENDS

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