By NICOLE VALICEK
HOBSONS Bay Police have warned motorists to keep calm on the roads with an increased number of road rage incidents reported over the last few months.
Hobsons Bay Acting Inspector Jenny Wilson said police are concerned with the number of road rage incidents that have become a trend in recent months.
“Police are concerned in relation to increased incidents of road rage that seem to be instigated along the Princes Highway between Altona and Wyndham,” Insp Wilson said.
Insp Wilson said an increased usage of the freeway and road works that have been in place for some time could be prompting the incidents.
“It appears road users are getting frustrated.”
She said a number of incidents started by vehicles travelling too close to the car in front of them and vehicles cutting each other off.
“This can result in incidents occurring where vehicle occupants have disputes that roll into physical assaults.”
“We have more road users than ever using our roads and people need to be mindful of other road users and giving everyone space, (due to the) high level of roadworks.”
“People need to consider there is road works all way to Altona and Wyndham and keep in mind during road works you’re required to drop speed to 80km/h … it can be congested.”
Last Wednesday a road rage incident resulted in a significant physical confrontation after a driver was followed by another car when they exited the freeway.
Insp Wilson said if you are in a dispute with someone not to engage with them, or if followed drive to a public place or your nearest police station and not to your home.
“You should not drive to an isolated location, I wouldn’t advocate getting out of the car at all if feeling scared or apprehensive. Drive to a public place, stop and call Triple-zero.”
