"Southern Police urge drivers to take it easy on the roads"

As the summer holidays come to a close for many, Southern District Police are urging drivers to take care if they are hitting the roads in the coming days.

“We’re expecting the roads in the southern area to be very busy between today and Sunday as holiday makers leave the Otago Lakes area,” says Area Commander Inspector Olaf Jensen.

“It’s really important that people consider their responsibility in keeping our roads safe before they get behind the wheel.

“We need motorists to take it easy and remember to check their speed, remove any distractions such a mobile phones, wear their seatbelts and avoid alcohol.

“Most importantly, be prepared for a slow journey.

Plan to take regular breaks – perhaps pack a picnic, and if you get stuck in slow moving traffic – be patient and please don’t take any risks.”

Police will have a strong presence on the main travel routes undertaking enforcement activities in an effort to reduce deaths and injuries on our roads.

“We encourage road users to ring *555, or 111 in emergency or life-threatening situations, to report any unsafe driving or matters they believe endanger others,” says Inspector Jensen.

Over the holiday period Police have received a number of calls from motorists regarding traffic offending.

“This is fantastic to see – it means people are taking road safety seriously and are asking Police to help in situations where motorists may be endangering others,” says Inspector Jensen.

“Motorists who use *555 regularly help Police to make successful interventions which potentially prevent tragic incidents involving death and serious injuries on our roads.

“With your help and cooperation, we can make our roads safer and ensure everyone gets home to their loved ones."

ENDS

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