Waikato Police apprehend driver travelling at over 220 kilometres per hour

Waikato District Road Policing Manager Inspector Freda Grace said that while the majority of drivers have been patient and used the roads in an appropriate manner over the holiday period there were still a number driving at ‘crazy’ speeds.

“The worst of these was a driver Police apprehended yesterday travelling northbound on the Waikato Expressway at 224km/h,” Inspector Grace said.

“The drivers’ initial speed was checked at a whopping 240km/h. This speed is simply reckless.

We calulalte that given normal prudent driver reactions, coupled with the vehicle being in good condition, at a speed of 240km/h it would take twelve seconds and 450 metres to stop.”

“If you are travelling at this speed, and something untoward happens up to 450 meters in front of you – the chances of you being involved in a collision are high.”

Inspector Grace said a number of other drivers have been stopped for speeding in Waikato District including a driver of Christmas Day who was clocked at 142km/h on state highway one at Taupiri.

“Boxing Day saw a number of drivers stopped for speed,” Inspector Grace said.

“These included a reading of 189km/h on the Waikato Expressway, 181 km/h on State Highway One at Horotiu and 115km/h on the Kaimai’s at State Highway 29.

The Kaimai’s are simply not designed for travel at this speed.”

Inspector Grace said drivers had given a range of excuses including they were late from a BBQ.

“All of these drivers had passengers or family with them,” Inspector Grace said.

“It is unacceptable to place those most close to you are such significant risk. This at the time of year when the traffic on the roads is significantly higher than usual and roads users are often not familiar with the route they are taking.”

Inspector Grace said the key is to start your drive in holiday mode.

“Leave early so there is no rush to get to the destination.

Take regular breaks, perhaps visit a place on the route you have not been to before, ensure you and your vehicle are fit for the journey, well rested and mechanically serviced before taking the trip.”

“Police want to prevent crashes and ensure road user safety, making sure every trip is safe and all reach their destinations to spend time with their families and friends making the New Year one to remember for the right reasons.”

ENDS

Speed / Stopping Distance Guide

240km Distance 450m Time 12 secs

224km Distance 400m Time 11.3 secs

150km Distance 200m Time 8 secs

100km Distance 100m Time 5.8 secs

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