Always buckle up is the message Central District Police want to send to motorists as recent statistics show a 96 percent front-seat restraint compliance rate for 2012.
Central District Road Policing Manager Inspector Dave White said: "While a 96 percent compliance rate is good, I know we can do better. It would be fantastic to have a 100 percent compliance rate across the district and I know this is achievable. All it takes is for motorists to be responsible for themselves and their passengers and buckle up."
A key focus for Police is to enhance road safety and reduce road trauma by enforcing the wearing of seatbelts and anyone Police identify not wearing one can expect to be issued an infringement notice.
"Before you drive anywhere you should always put your seatbelt on. Seatbelts are not an accessory and they are definitely not optional; they are there to be used and could save your life so remember to buckle up."
Police also remind those attending the annual Ohakune Mountain Mardi Gras this weekend to drive to survive and check road updates.
"The Mardi Gras attracts thousands of people from across the country and drivers may experience some delays in getting to their destination. Checking the latest traffic updates can alleviate waiting time and I encourage everyone to view these before they head off.
"A road policing operation in the area with the Traffic Alcohol Group and Highway Patrol kicks off tomorrow and people coming to the Mardi Gras should expect to be breath-tested."
Police also remind drivers to; watch their speed and following distance, take a break if fatigue starts to set in, drive to the conditions, don't drink and drive, and make sure seatbelts are worn.
"We want everyone to have a safe journey on our roads and putting on your seatbelt is one of the vital things you should do before you start your journey," said Inspector White.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Sara Stavropoulos on 027 702 0850.
Planning your journey and traffic updates:
If you want to know about potential delays before you hit the state highways visit onthemove.govt.nz. Through this NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) website you can sign up for free, customisable email alerts designed to inform you before your journey about notable road and driving conditions, incidents and roadworks taking place on New Zealand’s state highways. You can also visit http://www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/ for up-to-date information from the NZTA, or call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS for either the latest highway conditions or to report incidents or hazards on the state highways.
Seatbelt statistics:
The below link is to the Ministry of Transport annual safety belt and child restraint surveys.
http://www.transport.govt.nz/research/roadsafetysurveys/safetybeltstatis...