Drive to survive this Anniversary weekend

Horizons Regional Council’s road safety team is encouraging drivers to take care this Wellington Anniversary weekend following a spate of tragedies on New Zealand roads.

During the 2014/15 holiday period there were 15 fatal crashes on New Zealand roads resulting in 17 deaths. Of these crashes, 12 occurred on the open road and provisional reports indicate alcohol and/or speed contributed to 11 of the 15.

Driver fatigue is suspected as a contributing factor in two of the 15 crashes.

Horizons road safety coordinator Debbie Webster says there are a number of steps drivers can take to help ensure a safer journey.

“Driving is second nature to many of us and it’s easy to underestimate the consequences of our actions. Whipping out to pass that slow vehicle or increasing your speed may seem harmless but it can be all the difference between a safe arrival and tragedy.

“Just think, is it better to arrive alive or on time?” Ms Webster says.

There are likely to be more vehicles on the road this weekend and Ms Webster encourages drivers to be courteous and exercise patience with other road users.

“If you are in a slower vehicle such as a campervan or towing a trailer, please pull over and let others pass if you have a line of traffic behind you. This simple step can prevent frustrated drivers undertaking dangerous passing maneuvers and putting all road users at risk.

“By the same token, if you are following a slower vehicle, exercise a bit of patience. Wait for a passing lane or make sure you will be able to see at least 100 metres of clear road in front of you once you have finished passing.”

Drivers are also encouraged to remember the new blood alcohol limit and take care to ensure an enjoyable night with friends and family doesn’t leave them over the limit the following morning.

More tips for safer driving are available from the New Zealand Transport Agency website www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/driving-safely/index.html

ENDS

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