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Last modified: 23 Aug 2023 1:52pm

image of a speedometer with the speed needle replaced by a white cross

Many factors cause road crashes, but the impact speed during a collision is the primary factor determining your survival.

How fast you're going is the main decider if you live. It’s that simple.

Over the last five years, 100% of all fatalities in Selwyn occurred on roads with speed limits over 70km per hour. This doesn’t mean these crashes were caused by exceeding the speed limit, but in many cases the speed at point of impact was too great for the occupants to survive the crash.

We often hear that our roads are unsafe for our children to get themselves to and from schools, but what speed do you actually drive past children?

Remember they are speed limits, not speed targets. Roads are easier to cross if traffic is slower. The Council can build raised platforms, adjust speed limits, we can educate, the New Zealand Police can enforce, but ultimately for speeds to be reduced and made safe on our roads, you as the driver needs to lift the right foot a fraction.

Over the coming weeks you will see information around the role speed plays in the road toll in Selwyn, and how you can make a difference on our roads.

Please take the time to consider how driving a little slower can make a significant difference to everyone’s chances of survival. The Council's speed management plan will be out for public consultation in October, take the time to understand it and make  submissions.

Treat other road users like family and we all might stand a better chance of survival. Plan Ahead, Stay Alert, Slow Down, Drop Back