The road toll this year so far is keeping pace with the low road toll of last year but New Zealand Police say that could all change overnight if motorists do not remain vigilant and take extra care over the holiday period.
"Holiday driving has specific hazards," says Superintendent Paula Rose, National Manager - Road Policing "and we seem to say the same things every year, but there are some people who just do not get the message."
The holidays are a time to relax, celebrate and enjoy life, but the holiday periods and especially the high pressure times like Easter, can be particularly dangerous on the roads. Last year 9 people died on New Zealand roads over the Easter break.
The reasons for this are obvious and are usually the same:
• Traffic volume is heavier - more vehicles on the road means more risk of crashes • many people are driving on unfamiliar roads • fatigue sets in with people driving long hours or at abnormal times such as early morning or late evening • people on holiday can let down their guard when it comes to road safety - i.e. driving too fast, not wearing a safety belt, etc • an increased incidence of drink-driving during holiday periods.
"There are a few simple and sensible precautions that can be life savers," said Superintendent Rose. "Holiday driving requires extra care and patience, and most drivers understand this.
Fatigue is of particular concern over the holidays so we are urging drivers to take the simple and obvious precautions of ensuring that they get plenty of sleep before the journey. But it's also important that drivers make adequate time to complete their journey safely; take regular breaks if travelling long distances and ensure everyone in the vehicle is belted in safely."
As part of the Police campaign on the roads this Easter, emphasis will be on:
• Smooth traffic flows so driver frustration and delays are kept to a minimum; • Encouraging slower drivers to pull over safely to enable traffic to pass; and • Deterring those who put everyone else's life at risk by driving too fast for the conditions, drinking and driving and other irresponsible behaviour.
ENDS
For further information contact:
Lesley Wallis -Communications Manager -Road Policing 04 4747111
After Hours Media pager 026101082