Motorists will see a heightened police presence on the South Eastern Freeway as they enforce new speed limits on the down track leading to the city.
The changes follow the deaths of two motorists who were killed in August when a runaway truck collided with three vehicles at the intersection of the South Eastern Freeway, Cross Road and Glen Osmond Road.
From Monday, September 1, a 90kmh speed limit applies for all light vehicles on the down track of the South Eastern Freeway between the Stirling interchange and tollgate.
All trucks and buses, regardless of the number of axles, must travel at no more than 60kmh from the Crafers Interchange to the bottom of the freeway. From the Crafers Interchange until the existing signage location near the Measdays turn off trucks and buses must use the left lane and engage the appropriate gear to slow down and descend.
A truck is defined under the Australian Road Rules as a vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Mass of 4.5 tonnes or more.
Existing limits for all trucks with five axles or more remains at 60kph and will continue to be enforced as will their requirement to use a low gear.
Cautions will be handed out for the first month while drivers trucks and buses below five axles are educated on the changes and restrictions. However, those flouting the laws and creating aggravated and unsafe conditions will still be subject to fines.
Officer In Charge of Traffic, Superintendent Bob Fauser said they know that heavy vehicles impose extra dangers on roads simply because of their sheer size and weight.
"So by restricting speed we hope to prevent any further horrific crashes and injuries like we witnessed earlier this month," he said.
"I implore everyone to obey the new rules, remain patient with others and remember these measures are in place to keep all users of the SE Freeway – large and small – safe.
"Police will be highly visible on both sides of the freeway. We'll be enforcing the rules and educating drivers on their responsibilities. I'm asking for everyone using the freeway to help us out, spread the word and do the right thing. If you witness anyone ignoring the new restrictions, don't hesitate to call police."
