(Auckland) – Counties Manukau Police are asking motorists to remember to always drive to the conditions, following a devastating weekend on the roads nationwide. There were 10 road deaths across the country in the weekend. One of those fatalities occurred in one of the three serious crashes that took place in Counties Manukau District.
Counties Manukau Police Road Policing Manager Inspector Alison Brand says drivers must remember that the posted speed limit is not a target. “Travel at a speed that is suited to the conditions,” says Inspector Brand. “This means that in the rain, fog or at night it may not…….. be possible to drive at 100km/h and drivers will have to adjust their speed to ensure it is safe and reasonable for the conditions.”
Three serious crashes occurred in the District in quick succession during and following a period of heavy rain, leaving roads wet and visibility poor. A 63 year old woman remains in hospital in a serious condition following a crash on Whitford Road at around 12:40pm on Friday. Also on Friday at around 6:40pm on Linwood Road, Karaka two people were hospitalised following a three car crash in which alcohol is suspected to be a factor.
On Saturday morning at around 3:50am a 53 year old man died in a single vehicle crash on Clevedon-Kawakawa Bay Road. It is believed the man, a passenger in the vehicle, was not wearing a restraint. The Counties Manukau Police Serious Crash Unit attended all crashes and investigations are ongoing. “Choosing to travel at the safest speed under the limit will give you more time to react,” says Inspector Brand. “At night and in the rain on a 100km/h road, it is likely to be much safer to drive at 80km/h or a slower speed that you feel comfortable. “Every life lost on the road is a tragedy. Don’t prioritise getting to your destination quickly over getting there safely.”
