By JESSE GRAHAM
FINES for crossing train tracks when boom gates are down have doubled with the beginning of the new financial year, according to Monbulk MP and Acting Premier James Merlino.
Mr Merlino announced on Friday 3 July, that the fines for unauthorised crossing of train tracks by drivers or cyclists when boom gates are down have doubled for the coming year, in a move to reduce road trauma.
He said the number of trains hitting cars and pedestrians was “too high” and that the fines would deter people from illegally crossing the tracks.
The maximum court penalty for drivers and cyclists is now $3033, more than double the $1467 fine applicable last year – infringement penalties for the offence are now $607, up from $295.
For pedestrians, infringement penalties are now $379, up from $148, while the maximum court penalty is now $1517, compared to $738 in the last financial year.
The new fines and court penalties came into effect as of Wednesday 1 July, meaning drivers flaunting the law can now be slapped with the much-higher fines.
Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan said the fines would deter people from illegally crossing train tracks and putting their lives at risk.
“Doubling the fines will make people think twice about dangerously sneaking across the tracks,” Ms Allan said.
“People just need to stop taking chances so they don’t hurt or kill themselves and potentially traumatise train drivers, just to save a few extra minutes.”
The Lilydale level crossing is one of Victoria’s 50 most dangerous or congested level crossings, slated for removal in the coming years by the Victorian Government’s Level Crossing Removal Project.
