Police crackdown on red-light runners in Wellington

Police are reminding red-light runners in Wellington they could be stung with a $150 dollar fine as police start cracking down on the offence.

A road safety prevention operation running in July was targeting driver behaviour at intersections in particular, after it was found accidents at intersections were a leading factor in serious crashes in the Wellington district.

Police urged all drivers to take extra care and be more aware of their surroundings -- particularly in the city.

From Monday, officers will be actively patrolling intersections in the city, focusing on high risk locations.

Drivers who run a red light should expect to receive an infringement notice with a $150 fine.

Motorists caught using mobile phones, speeding, driving under the influence of drink or drugs, or not wearing seat belts, would also be penalised, said sergeant Jason McCarthy.

"Running a red light is dangerous and poses a genuine threat to the safety of motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

"The risks aren't worth it."

Wellington City Council was also highlighting the dangers of running a red light through its annual Stop on Red campaign.