Police investigating the weekend crash in Ruatoria in which six people lost their lives believe that most of the six could have survived the crash had they been properly restrained with seatbelts/child restraints.
Police have confirmed that an initial investigation of the crash indicates that none of the vehicle occupants was properly restrained.
So far in 2005 there have been 151 vehicle occupants killed in crashes.
Of these 36 were not wearing seatbelts, and it is estimated that 15 could have been saved by wearing seatbelts.
"We are very aware that people are losing their lives needlessly on the roads. This a terrible tragedy for the families and friends of the victims and the whole community will suffer," National Road Policing Manager, Superintendent Steve Fitzgerald said today.
We feel great sympathy for this community but this was not simply an unfortunate accident - it was a preventable tragedy and had they been wearing safety belts, the outcome could have been very different.
We should all reflect on that fact and ensure that we all keep trying to get the message to everyone in all communities."
ENDS
For further information:
Lesley Wallis - 04 4707111 - 0272209752
Superintendent Steve Fitzgerald - 027 4435024