Teen dies in avoidable road tragedy

At about 8.15pm on Friday the 19th October 2012, a single vehicle crash occurred on Plateau Road, Reporoa approximately 35kms south of Rotorua. The driver rounded a moderate right hand bend and lost control. The car has skidded sideways, flipped and landed on its roof.

Alcohol and speed are believed to be factors contributing to this crash and Police are continuing their investigations. The front seat passenger Annalese Bacon, a 17 year old Taupo resident, died at the scene. Early indications suggest the young woman who died was not wearing a seat belt.

The driver was taken to hospital with a moderate injury to his arm, and one of the two passengers received treatment for a minor cut to his head.

Inspector Kevin Taylor, Road Policing Manager for Bay of Plenty, says “This is a tragic reminder of what happens when simple messages are not followed.  This crash and the tragedy that ensued were completely avoidable.”

A review of crash cause data nationally has identified the causes that contribute to the highest proportion of crashes during Labour Weekend as poor observation, poor judgement, failing to give way/stop, poor handling, alcohol and speed (including too fast for conditions). Labour Weekend Road Policing will target these identified crash risk factors.

Police want to make sure that every journey is a safe journey for everyone. We will be working with our road safety partners; NZTA, MoT, ACC and AA to make sure the each person on the roads this weekend is as safe as they can possibly be.

The official holiday period for Labour Weekend 2012 began at 4pm 19 October and ends at 6am Tuesday 23 October.

For statistical information on holiday road toll, go to:
http://www.transport.govt.nz/ourwork/land/landsafety/holidayroadtolllabo...