Newly implemented changes to road rules that state motorists
towing another vehicle with a tow rope can only travel at
50kmh may not be widely known by the driving public, Gore
District Council roading manager Murray Hasler says.
The rule change, which came into force on November 1 at the
same time as the much publicised ban on cellphone use while
driving, applied to the use of non-rigid towing systems,
including tow ropes, and might not have been picked up by
motorists, Mr Hasler said.
Motorists would have been used to towing at a higher speed
and would now incur stiff fines if they were caught
travelling at more than 50kmh.
Existing penalties for exceeding the speed limit would apply.
Infringement fees for speeding increased progressively from
$30 for speeds less than 10kmh over the limit, to a maximum
fine of $630 for speeds up to 50kmh over the limit.
Those travelling at more than 50kmh over the limit could be
charged with careless, dangerous or reckless driving.
At more than 40kmh above the speed limit they could incur a
28-day licence suspension, which could lead to the vehicle
being seized and impounded for 28 days.
"Now, if you're caught, you could face a possible loss of
your licence or having your car confiscated," Mr Hasler said.
"The towing one [rule] is one that could catch out a lot of
people," Mr Hasler said.
The council had fielded calls about another rule change that
related to mopeds. It was now permissible for delivery people
to drive motorcycles or mopeds on a footpath for deliveries
to letter boxes, he said.
Road-controlling authorities were able to issue permits to
delivery people, Mr Hasler said.
"We have had a couple of inquiries from some delivery
people," Mr Hasler said.
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