Blessing Marks Start of Road Safety Initiative
Wellington Police will mark the start of a new road
safety initiative tomorrow by blessing a car involved in a
local alcohol-related crash.
The initiative aims to
educate audiences about the impact and serious reality of
drink driving and excessive speed. The car is the centre of
a display promoting the initiative and provides the public
with the chance to see closely and understand the effects
of a serious crash.
"Part of the Police presentation
to audiences will involve explaining the circumstances
behind this vehicle's crash," says Sergeant Peter Sowter of
Wellington's Serious Crash Unit.
"Bringing the crash
scene to the audience provides a sobering view on the
reality and seriousness of drink driving."
The
presentation also includes a video production outlining the
circumstances that led to this particular
tragedy.
Sergeant Sowter says the anti-drink drive
initiative has the support of the community. "This
initiative is the result of a great partnership effort with
NZ Transport Authority, Lower Hutt Road Safety Coordinator,
Fulton Hogan, Montgomery Watson and Marac Finance all
contributing to community safety.
"We've already had
local marae and schools express interest in booking the
crash display and presentation for various events and the
car will be used in a static display in local shopping
malls."
The car was chosen due to its involvement in a
local crash where drugs, speed and alcohol were
contributing factors. Sadly, the location where the crash
occurred had been earlier used to film a drink driving
television advertisement ("Driving's in the
Blood").
The number of fatalities from crashes in
Wellington District has been trending downwards over the
years. In the calendar year for 2006 there were 31 deaths,
15 in 2007, 19 in 2008 and this year the number stands at
13.
"Every fatality on the roads is one too many but
we are encouraged by these results. While people appear to
be showing more consideration towards road safety, there is
still room for improvement."
After the blessing, the
car will be prepared for the
display.
Ends