'Road safety is everybody’s responsibility' - Motorists urged to drive safely this Easter after horror death toll so far this year

March 28, 2018

One person died in the early morning crash on State Highway 29. (Source: Other)

Traffic is expected to be heavy as usual over Easter weekend and motorists are being urged to drive safely after a horror death toll on the roads this year.

Statistics from the Ministry of Transport shows that 100 people have already lost their lives on New Zealand road's since the beginning of the year to March 28.

It is 16 more than the same period last year.

New Zealand Police, the New Zealand Transport Agency, and ACC are reminding motorists that "road safety is everybody's responsibility".

Last Easter, poor driver behaviour and speed were the main contributing factors of crashes, says Assistant Commissioner for Road Policing, Sandra Venables.

She says the four main behaviours that contribute to road trauma are going too fast for the conditions, impairment (such as fatigue, drugs, or alcohol), distractions, and not wearing seat belts.

"I would like to see everybody make it through the weekend safely," says Ms Venables.

One person is in a critical condition and another was seriously injured in the crash in Herne Bay last night. (Source: Other)

ACC's Chief Customer Officer, Mike Tully is asking motorbike riders to take extra precaution after 19 riders and two pillions have died on the roads so far this year.

"As we move towards winter, and more challenging conditions on the roads, we want people to ride within their capability; at a pace that feels comfortable, and to wear good quality safety gear."

Two people died and three were seriously injured in the crash at Waimauku, Thursday. (Source: Other)

Drivers are also being urged to plan ahead to avoid traffic congestion, delays and frustration as there will be more people on the roads.

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