Press Release – New Zealand Police

Staying safe on Canterbury roads

In the last two weeks in Canterbury there have been several serious crashes, some of which have unfortunately resulted in fatalities. Despite this the number of road fatalities in Canterbury during September 2014 were the second lowest in the last 15 years and overall fatal crashes continue to follow a decreasing trend.

Police are unable to comment specifically on the investigations that are currently underway, but would like to take this opportunity to remind road users of some fundamental things they can do to protect themselves and others when on the road.

Amongst the leading causes of road fatalities in Canterbury are driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs, speed, not using restraints, decision making at intersections and distractions e.g. use of mobile phones and other devices.

Canterbury Road Policing Manager, Acting Inspector Glenn Nalder, says “In some cases, the simple use of age appropriate restraints or allowing enough time to complete a journey at a safe speed may have prevented serious injury and fatalities on the road.”

“As we move into summer and the holiday period there will be more cyclists on our roads as the weather continues to improve and we ask that motorists and cyclists share and obey the road rules when they travel. We urge everyone using our roads to drive to the conditions allowing sufficient time to make decisions at intersections, be mindful of the effect of bright sun on visibility and, in wet weather, increase their following distances.”

“Police want all journeys on our roads to be safe journeys. Our hearts go out to family and friends of those who have been injured or lost their lives on our roads this year. “

Police would like to take this opportunity to reassure the public that the roads in Canterbury are safe and ask they be vigilant when on the roads, ensure all passengers are wearing restraints and be mindful of other road users.

ENDS

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