Title: Name Release Te Pahu Fatal

The name of a driver killed in a single vehicle crash near Whatawhata late on Tuesday afternoon has been released.

Waikato Road Policing Manager, Inspector Leo Tooman, said the driver had been identified as Donald Ross EDWARDS, 74-years-old, of Karamu.

"The crash is still under investigation by the Waikato Serious Crash Unit and happened on Te Pahu Rd about 4.55pm.

"Initial indications on what has happened are that Mr EDWARDS' southbound Ford Falcon has failed to negotiate a right hand bend and crossed both lanes before colliding with a medium sized tree."

Mr Tooman said with 38 deaths on Waikato roads from 35 crashes, this District had the highest road toll of all 12 Police Districts.

"And the busiest period on our roads, the summer holidays, are still to come with traffic in some of our more popular holiday spots often bought to a standstill.

"For some reason at Christmas, Kiwis often get into a panic believing things have to get done now. What we need is for everyone to take a deep breath, have a bit of patience and show some consideration, that way all motorists will be able to share this and future summers with their families."

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