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There has been a steep increase in police officer issued regional speeding offences compared to metropolitan areas – recording more than 30,000 offences in our regions in 2022 – new RAA analysis of SAPOL data shows.
RAA is urging motorists to adhere to the speed limit and drive to the prevailing road and weather conditions.
The safety advice comes as the data shows 68 per cent of the state’s 204,146 speeding offences in the past five years were in regional areas.
RAA’s Senior Manager of Road Safety Charles Mountain said the many South Australians travelling around their home state during the school holidays should be mindful of speed limits and aware of changing road environments.
“Roads in regional SA – especially those areas popular with holidaymakers – will be busier than normal during the school holidays so we urge drivers to remain vigilant and exercise caution,’’ Mr Mountain said.
“It’s important to remember that the posted speed limit is the maximum – even when overtaking.
“If you’re planning a driving holiday, 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.’’
Alarmingly, 1,400 offences in the past five years in regional areas were for vehicles caught travelling 45km/h or more above the speed limit.
“Speeding – especially on roads with limits of 90km/h to 110km/h – can put not only you and your loved ones, but also other roads users at increased risk of death or serious injury,’’ Mr Mountain said.
“We’ve had a disastrous start to the year, with 68 lives lost on our roads already and speeding is a contributing factor in many crashes and one of the Fatal 5.
“Motorists, especially in our regions, need to adhere to all speed limits and also be aware of speed limit changes as they near towns or approach road works and adjust their speed accordingly.’’