11 May 2011

More cameras, demerit points in road safety plan

10:19 pm on 11 May 2011

More speed cameras, lower speed restrictions on some roads and demerit points instead of fines are included in a new plan to lower the road toll.

Transport Minister Steven Joyce on Wednesday announced a road safety strategy for the next decade.

Mr Joyce said safety improvements to roads are being assessed, with a focus on high-risk rural roads and urban intersections. One possibility is lower speeds in trouble spots.

Tackling speeding is a priority and Mr Joyce says there will be more speed cameras and demerit points instead of fines.

Mr Joyce believes demerit points are more effective for some high-risk drivers as they can lead to the loss of a driver's licence.

The minister believes the changes will help curb illegal street racing and extra speed cameras will free up officers' time and allow them to focus on high-risk drivers.

The plan also includes a bigger focus on the use of child restraints.