November road toll lowest for 30 years

The 35 deaths on New Zealand roads over the past month have contributed to the lowest November toll since 1970, the Land Transport Safety Authority said today.

The lowest ever November road toll – 34 deaths – was achieved in 1970. Last November 43 people were killed on New Zealand roads.

Director of Land Transport Safety Reg Barrett said it was encouraging to see the November toll coming down, but he cautioned that the level of trauma on our roads was still unacceptable.

“Thirty-five people died needlessly last month, and 410 people have been killed in road crashes so far this year. We continue to witness a horrendous level of tragedy and waste of life on our roads.”

Mr Barrett said there was no room for complacency heading into summer.

“The average December road toll over the past five years is 54 deaths, while in 1977 the December toll peaked at 84. School holidays and Christmas festivities combine for a potentially lethal mix. The simple message for a safe summer is to take extra care on the road.

“If you are going on holiday do a thorough safety check of your vehicle, allow yourself plenty of time to get to your destination, ensure everyone in the car is buckled up and never ever drive if you have been drinking,” Mr Barrett said.

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