ACC urges Kiwis to keep safe on the road these holidays

The Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) is urging New Zealanders to plan ahead and follow the basics of road safety this Easter holiday.

ACC, alongside NZ Transport Agency and New Zealand Police, calls on Kiwis to be aware of the increased number of vehicles as this can create challenging driving conditions. Drivers are also advised to pay extra attention in rural areas, where roads can be more demanding.

‘’Last year, we had 387 motor vehicle accident claims over the Easter period, a substantial increase from the previous year of 312,’’ ACC chief customer officer Emma Powell said, ‘’and this year the risk will be higher with busier roads. It takes everyone on the road to make it safe and look out for those most vulnerable – such as motorcyclists and young drivers (aged 16-24).”

Powell noted young drivers were injured in almost a third of motor vehicle accidents last Easter, so this group needs to be extra vigilant.

Read more: 2018 road toll worst in nine years

NZ Transport Agency safety and environment acting director Niclas Johansson outlined some simple rules, which he said can be the difference between a safe trip or a tragic outcome. These include:

• drive at a safe speed – depending on weather and other conditions this may be lower than the posted speed limit;
• always wear a seatbelt;
• don’t drive when tired and avoid alcohol;
• focus on the task of driving – distractions can be deadly, so put your phone away and keep your focus on the road.

“During holiday periods when the roads are busier than usual, the risk of drivers making mistakes that result in injuries or deaths increases,” Police manager of national road policing inspector Peter McKennie added. “That’s why everyone needs to pay full attention to the road safety basics over the holiday period.”