Changing driving habits and saving lives
"Changing driving habits and saving lives"
Getting people into the habit of buckling up and putting their mobile phone away is the focus of a police operation aimed at preventing further serious injuries and deaths on our roads.
Every day, people are
getting into their vehicles and putting their lives at risk
by not wearing a seat belt.
And it’s getting
worse.
From 2012-2014, there were around 57 deaths a
year, on average, associated with a restraint not being
worn.
In 2015, that jumped to 92 deaths.
Already this
year, 41% of vehicle occupants killed in crashes from
January to March were not wearing a seatbelt or
restraint.
That’s 28 people whose deaths may otherwise
have been prevented.
Whether you’re the driver or a front seat passenger, Ministry of Transport data shows wearing a seatbelt reduces your chance of death or serious injury in a crash by at least 40%.
“It takes next to no
time to put on a seat belt and wearing one could save your
life in a crash,” said National Manager of Road Policing,
Superintendent Steve Greally.
“So, regardless of what
type of vehicle you’re in, why wouldn’t you buckle up?
It’s a no-brainer.”
During Operation Habit, which will
run across New Zealand from 25 July to 7 August, motorists
will also be reminded of the very real risk from driver
distractions.
Distractions can come in many forms,
including changing the car stereo, unrestrained pets,
arguing children, eating and drinking, and applying make-up,
but a particular concern is talking, texting and checking
emails on a mobile phone while you’re on the
move.
“Driving requires your complete attention,” said
Mr Greally.
“Anything that diverts a driver’s
attention for more than a few seconds can significantly
increase the likelihood of a crash or near-crash.
“We
want every journey to be a safer journey for
everyone.
Put your passengers and other road users first
and put your phone away.”
Although current legislation allows the use of hands-free mobile phones, Police recommend drivers minimise the potential for distraction by getting into the habit of switching their phones off while driving, or pulling over to make or receive calls.
As well as increasing the risk of harm to yourself and others, if you’re caught using a mobile phone while driving you face an $80 infringement fee and 20 demerit points.
“Police
cannot do this alone,” said Mr Greally.
“Road safety
is everyone’s responsibility.
“Driver distractions and
not wearing a seat belt can have a very real human
cost.
No-one wants to see any more shattered families or
emptier communities in
mourning.”
ENDS