Out-of-control driver takes out wire median barrier in Northland

The newly-completed safety improvements on the northern side of the Brynderwyns shows the median barriers. PHOTO/MICHAEL CUNNINGHAM

An out-of-control car took out median barrier posts on the Brynderwyns but the driver walked away unscathed.

The accident happened about 1.45pm on Saturday.

A New Zealand Transport Agency spokesman said the driver lost control on the north side of the Brynderwyns, hit the barrier and took out 10-15 median barrier posts and wire.

The driver was, however, pushed back into the left lane.

"This is exactly how the central median barrier is designed to work. The car was prevented from crossing into the path of oncoming traffic and potentially hitting other vehicles," the spokesman said.

He said the car remained in the left lane and came to a stop.

Road workers have put road cones along the damaged section of the median barrier and the posts and wire will be replaced as soon as the work can be scheduled.

NZTA has urged motorists to take extra care during wet weather and to drive to the conditions, keep to the speed limit and maintain a safe stopping distance from other vehicles.

The government agency spent $16 million on safety improvement in the Brynderwyns by widening the road and installing a median wire rope barrier to separate north and south bound traffic. Work was completed mid last year.