Should drivers be fined for running out of petrol on motorways?

Some drivers run out of fuel in heavy traffic areas such as the Auckland harbour bridge, Newmarket Viaduct and the Victoria Park flyover. Photo / Kenny Rodger

The NZ Transport Agency is proposing a bylaw that would make it an offence to run out of fuel anywhere on the Auckland motorway network. 

Police are calling for a deterrent after becoming frustrated at the number of stranded vehicles blocking lanes and threatening other motorists' safety.

During a three-week period in July last year, 148 vehicles ran out of fuel on Auckland motorways, including three trucks.

Should drivers be fined for running out of petrol on motorways?