Peak sunstrike season
Police are reminding Manawatu¯ motorists to take extra care on the roads during winter after sunstrike and frosty conditions contributed to two crashes within 10 minutes of each other on Friday morning.
On the outskirts of Palmerston North, just before 8.30am, a driver was heading down Napier Rd into the morning sun, which made it harder for the driver to spot a truck pulling out of Weston Ave, and the two vehicles collided.
About the same time, a car skidded on an icy State Highway 49 and crashed into a ditch, just south of the junction with Ratamaire Rd, near hakune.
Central District police roading policy manager Inspector David White said crashes like these are a reminder for motorists to be wary of wintry conditions.
‘‘Winter roads can be less forgiving ... [so] be conscious of the unpredictable winter conditions."
He recommended motorists make sure their windows are clear of ice, frost and condensation before setting off – just chipping out a hole to peer through is not enough.
Drivers should allow more travel time, so they can drive a little slower and more cautiously to deal with rain or ice. And leave more space between vehicles to compensate for slippery roads and poor visibility, White said.
‘‘If we all do this consistently we can avoid mistakes leading to tragic outcomes.’’
AA road safety spokesman Dylan Thomsen said there was a spike in crashes every year from May to July – and sunstrike was a major part of this.
The sun hung lower in the sky at this time of year, so many drivers ended up getting the sun directly in their eyes in the morning or early evening.
‘‘On average there are four deaths and 150 injuries in crashes caused by sunstrike every year. But, luckily, there are a few simple steps we can all take to reduce the risks.’’
Good sunglasses and a clean windscreen went a long way, but drivers should also turn on their headlights even if it’s not dark on the morning or early evening commute, Thomsen said
‘‘That’s not going to help you see, but it make it easier for others to see you through the glare.’’