Independent Dubbo MP Dawn Fardell said they are running circles around their responsibility to make NSW roads safer.

Mrs Fardell said she was extremely disappointed that her notice of motion to ensure drivers were appropriately skilled to tow trailers and caravans was not widely endorsed.

“It was backed by Independent MPs and, momentarily, one Nationals MP until he was directed otherwise by his party,” Mrs Fardell said.

“Unfortunately the Government fell into line with advice from the RTA which seems to feel not enough people towing trailers and caravans are killed or maimed to warrant action.

“Speaking as an MP, a road user and member of the Parliamentary Staysafe Committee it would be nice if we could adopt policy

and legislation that is based on prevention rather than mopping up the carnage after it has occurred.”

Mrs Fardell has urged Parliament to support a system for Licence Class C drivers where they are required to complete a driving test before they tow trailers and caravans.

“This is not a revenue raiser and could well be a one-off test to simply ensure drivers are appropriately informed about weight distribution, loading and handling of vehicles which, in some instances, are similar in length to a semi-trailer,” Mrs Fardell said.

“In the Dubbo local government area alone there are 7605 registered trailers. The possibility of more accidents involving vehicles towing caravans or large trailers is likely to increase … on the Newell Highway.

“We should also keep in mind that people who are uneasy

about towing a large trailer or

caravan, because they are not properly skilled, can cause considerable frustration on the roads, and lead to risky behaviour by other users.”

“It is just mind-boggling that MPs should vote against a measure aimed at making the roads safer, reducing risks and the likelihood of future accidents.”

seona.cremasco@ruralpress.com