Speed tolerance in Canterbury lowered over Labour Weekend

Thursday, 23 October 2014 - 7:27am

Canterbury

While speed tolerance lowers over Labour Day Weekend the visibility of Canterbury Police prevention work will increase across the District.

“We’re lowering and enforcing a 4kmh speed tolerance again this holiday weekend as regardless of the cause speed can be the difference between walking away from a crash or living with lifelong injuries or a fatality in the family” explains Canterbury Road Policing Manager, Inspector Al Stewart

“Driving to the conditions and speed limits is just one way to reduce the likelihood of a crash. Sharing the driving or taking regular breaks on long journeys is another. Canterbury Police want all journeys on our roads to be safe journeys so make sure you use appropriate restraints in the car whether you’re driving or a passenger.”

“Driving socially is not just about looking after the community with you in your vehicle but looking out for the community around you as well. Tired, distracted drivers put not only themselves but others on the road at risk”

The official holiday period for Labour Day Weekend (LDW) this year is from 4.00 pm on Friday 25 October2014 to 6.00am on Tuesday 29 October 2014.

In Canterbury between 2009 and 2013 there have been two fatal crashes, 13 serious injury crashes, 42 minor injury crashes and 89 non-injury crashes recorded in the District.

Inspector Stewart said "Police are working with other agencies such as the NZ Transport Agency over the weekend to keep traffic moving and everyone safe, but remind drivers to be patient as the roads will be busy. Allow extra time for your trips and avoid taking unnecessary risks.”

The public can free phone *555 from any mobile, using a hands free kit if you’re driving, to report any non-life threatening road incidents such as erratic driving, non-injury crashes, traffic congestion, breakdowns and obstructions to the highway. In an emergency always call emergency services on 111.

"In Canterbury our approach to road safety is always 'Anywhere, anytime' - and every driver stopped will be breath tested this weekend. Police will also be enforcing use of appropriate restraints as nearly a third of all fatalities in Canterbury could have been prevented if the driver or passenger had been wearing their seatbelt." says Inspector Stewart.

ENDS

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