Waikato Police investigating a fatal crash in the north east of the district say driving to the conditions is crucial and those conditions aren’t limited to just climatic factors.
District Road Policing Manager, Inspector Freda Grace, said the call comes after a fatal crash overnight on SH2 at Mangatarata.
"Emergency Services were called to the scene about 10.30pm yesterday after a collision between an eastbound truck and trailer unit and a westbound BMW car.
“The collision is under investigation by both the Waikato Serious Crash and Commercial Vehicle Investigation Units and it’s too early to confirm the cause however initial indications are that the BMW has rounded a moderate right hand curve crossing the centreline and colliding with the truck and trailer in the eastbound lane.”
Mrs Grace said the driver of the BMW was killed in the crash and Police are working to advise the deceased’s family and complete the formal identification process.”
“Driving conditions in the area at the time of the crash were wet and the roads were slippery. Combined with that fatigue could have played a factor in what happened given the BMW driver was ¾ of the way home from a trip to the Central North Island.
“A lot people, when they hear Police talk about driving to the conditions automatically think of wind and rain but the driving environment is so much more than that. We need to ensure motorists aren’t driving tired or impaired and they and their vehicles are fully fit for the road.”
Mrs Grace said that on behalf of NZ Police she would like to extend her sympathy to the family and friends of the deceased driver.
“We urge all drivers to be fully engaged in their driving and constantly reassess the conditions, including the weather, car and themselves to ensure everyone’s safety on the roads.
“After all, road safety is no accident. It takes everyone who is driving to constantly assess and amend their driving to the conditions. Safe drivers mean safer families and safer communities.”
End