These rules are in place for the continued safety of all road users.

Sergeant Paul Lydiate of Wagin Police said the education process was over and it was now time for tougher enforcement of all road rules.

“Stop signs are exactly that – drivers must come to a complete stop – rolling through the stop sign is not okay and drivers not complying with this road rule can expect an $150 on the spot fine,” he said.

“One area we will be targeting is around the school where young children are and in particular before and after school.

“We are also targeting drivers using their mobile phones for either talking or texting – these drivers can expect a $250 fine.”

Current Western law requires drivers to ensure all passengers travelling in their motor vehicle are restrained in an approved child restraint or seatbelt.

From October 1 the legislation will change requiring that children up to six months of age must be in a rearward facing child restraint or capsule; children aged six months to four years must be in a child restraint with an inbuilt harness; and children aged four-seven must be in a booster seat.

Children less than four will no longer be permitted in the front passenger seat – children aged four-seven will only be allowed in the front passenger seat if all seating positions are in use by children under seven.

Sergeant Lydiate said it was the driver of the vehicle who was responsible for all passengers travelling in their vehicle.

“It is the driver who is liable for any fine imposed,” he said.

“These fines are huge and I would like to see people keep their money in their pockets.

“For example if two children are travelling in a vehicle not restrained in the correct manner the driver can expect to receive a fine of $1000 – $500 per person/child not restrained.”

The road rules are in place for a very good reason and are imposed for the safety of all road users.