Police in the central North Island have caught dozens of drivers breaking the law during a four-day road safety operation targeting dangerous driving and heavy vehicle compliance.
Road policing staff from Manawatū and the Commercial Vehicle Safety Team set up 20 checkpoints across the upper Rangitīkei and greater Ruapehu areas between April 9-12.
A total of 7755 drivers were stopped and breath tested during the operation, with three returning results over the legal limit.
Two of those drivers were fined $200, forbidden to drive for 12 hours and issued 50 demerit points. The third will face court.
Police also issued nearly 130 infringement notices, including 62 for speeding, eight for failing to wear a seatbelt, and two for mobile phone use behind the wheel. More than 50 other infringements were for various vehicle-related offences.
Heavy motor vehicles were also in the spotlight, with 61 trucks and buses inspected. Two were taken off the road and stickered for safety issues, while one was found not up to Certificate of Fitness standards.
While the majority of motorists were compliant, police say the number of infringements is a reminder that risky behaviour is still too common.
“While most drivers are doing the right thing, we are still disappointed that we’re continuing to see people putting themselves and other road users at risk,” says Senior Sergeant Andy Reid, Manawatū road policing services team leader.
“Our aim is to prevent tragic incidents on our roads, and we make no apology for targeting dangerous driving behaviour including restraints, impairment, distractions, and speed.”
