Tourist accidents linked to poorly marked intersections

A road safety campaigner has called for urgent upgrades to rural intersections, after yet another fatal crash near Springston[1] caused by a tourist apparently not noticing a Stop sign.

Clive Matthew-Wilson, editor of the car review website dogandlemon.com, says:

“It’s clear that tourists are often unaware that there is a Stop sign, so they just drive straight through, often with fatal consequences.”

“Aside from improving signage at intersections, the government needs to urgently install horizontal rumble strips, to alert drivers that a compulsory stop intersection is looming. Multiple studies[2] have shown these strips are highly effective at slowing vehicles and alerting drivers that a major intersection is just ahead.”

Matthew-Wilson says the government’s response to date has been slow and largely ineffective.

“We don’t need further research; the research has already been done. We need action. Now.”

"With increasing numbers of foreign tourists taking to the roads, accidents at intersections such as this are likely to increase."

“The Canterbury Plains, with its network of long, straight roads, is appealing to tourist drivers. While they're busy enjoying the scenery and uncluttered roads, drivers are not anticipating Stop signs. The fact that they may be required to stop, or give way at an intersection doesn't enter their thinking."

“Government and local authorities need to take immediate action so that drivers are aware of an intersection in sufficient time for them to slow and stop."

“Aside from the risk that tourist drivers pose in some rural districts, these multiple accidents are being reported overseas, and must surely damage our reputation as a safe tourist destination.”

Release ends. For further information please contact dogandlemon.com

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