LOWER TOLL

Press, Volume CXIV, Issue 33452, 6 February 1974, Page 3

LOWER TOLL

(N.Z. Press Association) WELLINGTON, Feb. 5. The January road toll of 47 was II lower than the toll in January last year, and the lowest monthly toll for just over two years, said the Minister of Transport (Sir Basil Arthur) today. “One sympathises with the relatives of those people who lost their lives in this constant running battle with machines, but at the same time it is pleasing to be able to note that, statistically speaking, the year has got off to such a good start,” the Minister said in a statement. “The most notable decreases occurred in pedestrian and passenger deaths, which dropped from 13 to six, and from 20 to 15, respectively.

“Although accidents on the whole are down there has been a slight increase in the incidence of singlevehicle accidents,” Sir Basil Arthur said. This was probably attributable to the dangers of driving when fatigued. “Drivers would do well to remember that the chances of being involved in an accident increase substantially as concentration and judgment are affected, whether by fatigue or alcohol,” the Minister said. “The month of February usually brings more accidents as people return from holiday and children return to school. The pattern of traffic, which changes during the holiday period, now reverts to normal and extra care is needed,” said Sir Basil Arthur.