Wellington District Police are urging drivers to take greater care after a sharp rise in road deaths across New Zealand.
The warning follows 18 deaths in 14 crashes nationwide over 10 days since April 20, figures Police say should concern all road users.
Inspector Peter McKennie, Acting Director of Road Policing, said many of the deaths were preventable.
“Our thoughts are first and foremost with the families who have lost loved ones so tragically in recent days,” McKennie said.
“Any death on the road is one too many. However, Police is extremely frustrated due to the fact many of these deaths could have been avoided with safer driving behaviours.”
Preliminary findings show 16 of the 18 deaths occurred on open roads with 100km/h speed limits and no median barriers.
Nine crashes involved a vehicle crossing the centre line and colliding with oncoming traffic, resulting in 11 deaths. Three others were vehicles leaving the road.
Police said six people killed were not wearing seatbelts, including one on a 50km/h road. Two fatal crashes involved motorcycles.
McKennie said the risks highlighted in the data are relevant to roads across the Wellington region.
“As a driver, never underestimate the decisions you make. They can affect not only you and those in your vehicle, but everyone else on the road around you as well,” he said.
Police are reminding drivers to wear seatbelts, avoid driving while impaired or fatigued, stay focused and drive to the conditions.
“There will be no tolerance from Police for those who choose to disregard road safety rules and put the lives of others at risk,” McKennie said.
