Lowest road toll in more than 15 years around North Shore, Waitakere and Rodney

Fourteen less people died on North Shore, Waitakere and Rodney roads in the last fiscal year according to the latest Road Policing Report.

Twenty two people died on our roads compared to 36 people in the previous fiscal year.

&#34Although it’s still a lot and very tragic for the families affected, it’s a significant and noteworthy improvement&#34, said Road Policing Manager, Inspector Dick Trimble.

Police believe the 38% drop is attributable to a number of initiatives.

&#34Greater enforcement of speed limits, increased visibility of highway patrols on motorways and State Highways (particularly in Rodney), specific targeting of black spots and high profile compulsory breath testing campaigns are the reasons for the drop&#34.

The road toll has dropped but the reasons for the fatalities remains the same... speed and alcohol.

There were 4 deaths on the actual motorways, 3 were pedestrians affected by alcohol wandering onto the roads and the other was an improperly restrained child who died in a crash.

&#34It’s very satisfying that police initiatives are working to reduce the road toll but we have to congratulate drivers as well... they are driving more carefully and responsibly and as a consequence more people are staying alive&#34.