Crash figures jump on State Highway 1

High speed was a factor in the high number of crashes between Warkworth and Puhoi last year, according to the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA).NZTA figures show there were three fatal accidents on the 15km stretch of SH1 between Billings Road, just north of the tunnel, and McKinney Road in Warkworth – the highest number in the past five years.

Overall, there were 37 crashes on the road, up from 26 in 2014, following a steady decline in crash figures over the previous five years (see graph).

NZTA Auckland highway manager Brett Gliddon says there was a high rate of crashes caused by people losing control on corners due to driving too fast for the conditions.

Two of the three fatalities were motorcycle accidents and both drivers were over the legal alcohol limit. The third occurred when a car swung wide on a corner due to fatigue.

NZTA has just completed an annual crash reduction study on the road and is considering a range of potential safety projects.

“It will also be undertaking a longer term study of the section of highway with a focus on crashes due to vehicles running off the road and crossing the centreline, as well as high risk intersections,” Mr Gliddon says.