“Choose patience over pressure when sharing the road.” That was the message to drivers in New Zealand during May’s Road Safety Week.
The AA said serious crashes happen not because people intend harm, but because speed, stress, and poor judgement take over.
And it said small decisions to slow down, wait, and give space, particularly around vulnerable road users, can make the difference between a near miss and a life changing crash.
“Awareness of other road users is becoming more important with our city populations growing and people choosing to walk, cycle and use e-scooters more,” said AA road safety spokesperson Dylan Thomsen.
“Sharing the road safely doesn’t require major changes – just awareness, and patience for others.”
The AA recently supported Government proposals to introduce a minimum passing distance for a vehicle going past a bike or horse rider – one metre at speeds of 60kmh or under, and 1.5m at higher speeds.
“Bad judgement calls by drivers do sometimes cause cyclists and horse riders to lose control and have resulted in deaths and serious injuries,” added Dylan.
“If it’s not safe to pass with room to spare, it’s best to give yourself more time, slow down and wait.”
The AA has used Road Safety Week to remind motorists that driving to the conditions is about more than just adjusting speed when it’s wet.
“When you’re driving, slowing down even slightly gives you more time to react and greatly reduces the severity of any impact,” said Dylan.
“It’s one of the simplest and most effective safety actions we can all take.”
