Red light for speedsters

Press, 17 January 1989, Page 4

Red light for speedsters

PA Hamilton A warning light designed to embarrass drivers into slowing down is being tested, by the Ministry of Transport. A management consultant, Mr Paul James, said he designed the speed reminder device to make the public aware of those drivers exceeding the speed limit. The red-flashing lights, connected to a Ministry of Transport speed trap device, warn drivers they could be stopped for speeding. The lights are mounted on an appropriate speed limit sign, giving a three second flashing warning to passing drivers. The device used “negative reinforcement” to make drivers slow to the legal limit, Mr James said. By making the public aware motorists were breaking the law, the device worked on a driver’s conscience.

“It embarrasses drivers more than being confronted by a M.O.T. officer.” The warning units, costed at about $l5OO, could pay for themselves in a week by saving work for M.O.T. officers.

Mr James said he had first seen the system used in Britain, but redeveloped the principle with New Zealand traffic regulations in mind. The M.O.T. started using the device this week and would move it round city locations during an initial two week testing period.