Southern District Police are reminding motorists to continue to take care on the roads as the Burt Munro Motorcycle Challenge heads to town this week.
Police are expecting a high influx of motorcyclists and vehicles to be travelling in the Southland, Central Otago and Otago areas before, during and after the Burt Munro Motor Cycle Rally which runs from 24th-27th November.
Historically, the event attracts a number of motorcycle enthusiasts from all over New Zealand, including some visitors from Australia and further abroad.
"We want every journey for all road users to be a safe one,” says Acting Senior Sergeant Deon McNaught, Southland Road Policing Manager.
“Motorists need to remember that watching your speed is vital. If you crash – regardless of the cause or who is at fault – speed is often the factor that most affects the outcome.
“Driving only a few kilometres over the speed limit may not seem like much to you, but it can be the difference between avoiding a collision completely or being involved in a crash with a tragic outcome.
“Motorcyclists on the road are extremely vulnerable so we need to take extra care on our roads due to the increase of riders. In particular, take extra time at intersections to check at least twice for the presence of motorcycles.
“But this also goes for motorcyclists as well – maximise your contrast against the environment and ensure you are positioned for drivers to have the best chance of seeing you. For the riders of older machines this includes riding with your headlight on, to be seen.
“Also remember that the earthquakes may have affected some roads and left debris, so be extra vigilant about the road surface.
“Many riders will be travelling long distances to get to the Burt Munro rally, so ensuring regular rest stops is important to maintain alertness” he said. “Be extra cautious about trying to ride long distances after a few beers the night before, as alcohol takes a while to leave the system.
"Also ensure you’re aware of your surroundings and other road users, keep your speed in check and drive to the conditions," says Mr McNaught.
Police will be highly visible on our roads during this period but officers aren’t the only ones who play a part in what happens on our roads.
“We need to remember that the safety of our roads is the responsibility of all who use them.
“We encourage all drivers to consider how their driving behaviour affects the safety of themselves, their passengers, and other road users.”
Police staff will be conducting compulsory breath test checkpoints and every driver should expect to be breath tested anywhere, anytime.
“Police want everyone to enjoy their time here, but please make sure you do so safely,” says Mr McNaught.
Police are also reminding those travelling to the south to look after their property and report any suspicious behaviour immediately.
“Opportunity is a major driver in criminal offending. By keeping belongings out of sight and storing them in a secure, well-lit area or by locking them away, you can reduce the likelihood you will become a victim of crime.
“In the end, it’s about making sure that you, your friends, your family, and those around you have a great time, but that you also have a safe time as well,” says Mr McNaught.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre