Safe driving on New Zealand roads 

In New Zealand there are road rules and most drivers are considerate. Most cars are in good condition and people on the road don’t generally drive like they are in a rally car race. So why  are the roads considered to be so dangerous and why is the accident road toll so high?

There are numerous reasons New Zealand roads can be hazardous.

Rapidly changeable weather conditions creating wet surfaces, heavy wind and poor visibility. Many New Zealand roads wind through remote mountain areas with high cliffs, narrow roads and no barriers. And many rural areas still have gravel roads which combined with speed can be very dangerous.
  
Here are some tips for safe driving on New Zealand roads:

1. Fatigue is a major factor in many road accidents, so make sure you are well rested before you drive and if you are taking a long trip take regular breaks.
2. Speed is most certainly the cause of many fatal car crashes around New Zealand. Even if you know the roads, stick to the speed limits. Regulate your speed based on immediate conditions and hazards.
3. Alcohol significantly impairs your ability to drive.If you are driving at all it is best to avoid all alcohol. Take a cab, dial a driver, designate a driver or stay over with a friend. 
4. Drive to the conditions, reduce your speed in wet windy conditions and pull over if visibility limitations become too dangerous. Don’t drive in heavy fog or conditions which impair your ability to see the road clearly. Slow down on gravel roads. 
5. Know the road rules that are there for your safety. No matter how much of a hurry you think you are in never over take on a blind corner, observe the 3 second follow rule, observe give-way and stop signs, never cross a railway line without checking both ways. 
6. Ensure your vehicle is in road worthy condition with a current warrant of fitness. 
7. Keep the stereo volume down in your car. If there is lots of noise either from the stereo, ipod or friends it is harder to concentrate on driving.
8. Cell phone use while driving is nowillegal. Talking and texting is distracting while driving and distractions cause accidents. If you have to talk on the phone install a hands free kit in the car, it will save you fines and could save your life.
9. Respect others on the road, including drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. Keep a close eye on what’s going on around you on the roads so you are prepared for hazards.
10. Stay informed with New Zealand road safety news through these great websites:

a)  Ministy of Transport's Safer Journeys website

b)  New Zealand Police: Safety in the car

Remember that your car, if misused can be a fatal weapon.  It only takes a split second for an accident to happen. New Zealand roads can be dangerous but if you take into account all the things outlined here you will greatly reduce the risk of an accident.