Tourists not to blame , road toll stats show

An article in the NZ Herald in July 2020 reported that during the lock down there were near to zero foreign drivers but there was little change to the road toll figures.  Overall, across New Zealand, foreign drivers were involved in under 4 per cent of crashes in 2017.  Inspector Peter McKennie (acting national road policing) said visiting drivers make up only a very small proportion of serious crashes on New Zealand roads and crash reasons are the same for locals.  Factors that are a major factor in fatal accidents remain the same – failure to wear seat belts, excessive speed, driving when tired, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol & distractions such using cell phones.

Along with experience a sound understanding of driving and the correct way to drive is an essential tool to help reduce the road toll on the roads.  Continued education once qualified helps to maintain the required standards also