visit raa.com.au
Almost two-thirds of all speeding offences issued by police officers occur on regional roads, latest figures show.
The revelation comes on the eve of the school holidays when motorists make an exodus to vacation destinations across the state.
In the past five years officers have detected 213,304 speeding offences of which 64% – or 137,484 – were on regional roads, police figures obtained by RAA show.
Of the offences identified on regional roads, 46,226 resulted in a caution and 90,651 in fines.
The total non-camera fines issued by officers cost motorists $42,223,807.
Alarmingly, 1357 offences were for vehicles caught travelling 45km/h or more above the speed limit.
RAA Senior Manager Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain said motorists risked much more than a fine if they exceed the speed limit.
“Motorists must also be aware of speed limit changes as they near towns or approach road works and adjust their speed accordingly.’’
Mr Mountain said despite the recent easing of COVID-19 travel restrictions, many South Australians were still holidaying in their home state during the school holidays.
“Roads in regional SA – especially those areas popular with holidaymakers – will be busier than normal from this weekend so we urge drivers to remain vigilant and exercise caution,’’ he said.
“If you’re planning on getting away, make sure you drive to the conditions, plan regular rest breaks and put your safety and that of other road users at the top of your driving agenda.’’
Number of motorists caught by officers speeding in regional SA – 2017-21
SAPOL Local Service Area Offences $
Murray Mallee 30,439 9,708,494
Yorke Mid North 25,119 7,827,241
Hills Fleurieu 19,676 4,925,865
Far North 18,675 6,667,718
Barossa 16,853 6,686,043
Eyre Western 13,900 3,211,855
Limestone Coast 12,822 3,196,591