Southern District Police are calling on motorists to take extra care on the roads following a concerning number of fatal crashes in recent weeks.
In less than two weeks, four crashes have claimed the lives of five people—three in the Otago Lakes area and one in Southland. Their deaths have been referred to the Coroner.
Inspector Craig Brown, Southern District Road Policing Manager, said Police have identified three common factors in recent serious and fatal crashes: speed, poor decision-making, and driving while impaired by alcohol or other substances.
“Our hearts go out to the families of those involved,” he said. “They’re forced to face the devastating consequences of these crashes, which potentially could have been avoided.”
Inspector Brown highlighted that fatal crashes don’t just affect the victims and their families but also impact other motorists, witnesses, and first responders. Emergency services personnel attending these incidents are also affected by the tragic consequences.
“We are urging members of the public to take road safety seriously, slow down, don’t drive impaired and make good judgement calls – your life literally depends on it,” he said.
Police will be increasing enforcement efforts on key risk factors such as excessive speed, impairment, failure to wear restraints, and driver distraction. However, Inspector Brown stressed that keeping roads safe is a shared responsibility.
“But keeping people safe is a team effort, and drivers have to do their part,” he said.
Police are also asking the public to report any unsafe driving they witness. If the dangerous behaviour is happening at the time, drivers should call 111. If it has already occurred, reports can be made through 105.