Source: New Zealand Police
Southern Police are concerned about the number of deaths on Otago-Southland roads over the past week and are encouraging all road users to take care.
Road Policing Manager Inspector Craig Brown says the three fatalities – in the areas of Kawarau Gorge, Lumsden and Clinton – are heartbreaking reminders for all road users to slow down and take care.
“While the circumstances of those crashes are still under investigation, they’re a tragic and timely reminder to all road users to drive safely. Especially in the lead up to a busy season on our roads.
“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 as well.
“There are four main behaviours that contribute to death or serious injury on our roads: speeding, failure to use a seatbelt, driving distracted, and driving impaired.
“If you’re getting on the road today, please buckle up, put your phone away, watch your speed, and if you are at all impaired by alcohol, drugs or tiredness, don’t get behind the wheel.
“To help prevent fatigue, plan your trip well and take adequate breaks.
“These things might be the difference between you, or someone else, getting home safely or not.
Police also urge all road users to take extra care on roads with speed limits greater than 80km/h that have no traffic safety barriers in place. Any mistake on those roads can quickly end in tragedy.
“There will be no tolerance from Police for those who choose to disregard road safety rules and put the lives of others at risk,” Inspector Brown says.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/11/06/timely-reminder-to-take-care-on-the-road-after-three-fatal-crashes-in-one-week-on-southern-roads/