Media release from the Minister for Public Transport

Monday, 17 July 2009

The Brumby Labor Government today launched a new level crossing safety campaign which reminds motorists and pedestrians that there are some things in life waiting for.

Public Transport Minister Lynne Kosky said the new advertisements were the latest instalment in the Victorian Government’s Don’t Risk It! level crossing safety campaign which highlights the dangers if motorists disobey road rules at crossings.

"Level crossing safety is a shared responsibility and all road users need to take care and obey the signs whenever they use a level crossing," Ms Kosky said.

"Unfortunately some motorists continue to take risks by not slowing down, ignoring flashing lights and warning bells or rushing to beat boom barriers.

"This is extremely dangerous behaviour and these motorists need to understand that in attempting to save a few minutes of their time, they are putting their life and the lives of others at risk.

"Level crossing crashes have a devastating impact on families and communities and all motorists need to remember to slow down, obey the signs and be prepared to stop."

Ms Kosky said the advertisements would appear on television, radio and online media from 19 July and formed part of National Rail Safety Week.

"National Rail Safety Week runs from 24-31 July and seeks to increase community awareness about rail safety and improve behaviour at and around railways," she said.

"Rail operators and road safety partners around Australia will come together throughout the week to promote rail safety and remind motorists and pedestrians to take care and behave responsibly."

Ms Kosky joined Upper House Member for Eastern Metropolitan Shaun Leane MLC at the Metropolitan Traffic Education Centre (METEC) in Bayswater to launch the campaign which has a fully function level crossing.

"It is critical that young and novice drivers are reminded of the importance of level crossing safety. Establishing a crossing at the driver training centre will help drivers become familiar with the behaviour required to safely navigate a crossing," Mr Leane said.

"We need to equip our young and new drivers with the best possible skills and I have no doubt allowing them to encounter different scenarios in a test environment helps to make them safer drivers.

"The Brumby Labor Government is taking action to improve safety at level crossings and in the last four financial years we have upgraded 245 crossings, as well as installing Automatic Advanced Warning Signs and rumble strips, reducing speed limits and introducing tougher penalties for drivers who behave recklessly."